A good kicking from the bookies was dished out to yours truly, bar Up for Review who came in at a short price in the bumper, but he was never going to save the day yesterday. Road to Riches romping home in the Lexus rubbed salt in the wounds as I talked myself out of backing him only the night before.
Anyhow, enough of the sob stories! Apologies for the tardiness of this blog but I fell foul of an awful does of man flu yesterday and was in no shape to be looking at form!
For what it’s worth, here’s a quick fire look at today’s card!
12:20 Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Chase – Oliver McKiernan’s On the Shannon is the market leader and is fancied to do the business off a light weight and with Shane Crimin claiming a few more off his back.
12:55 Copper Face Jacks Maiden Hurdle – Windsor Park sets the standard here but I’ve backed Rogue Trader each way who is talented and still unexposed. 12’s could be a big price.
13:25 Ryanair Hurdle (Grade 1) – This could be the last time I ever back Hurricane Fly. But over this course and distance he’s bloody hard to beat.
14:00 Ryanair E.B.F. Novice Handicap Hurdle – Some progressive types and some not so progressive types in this. I’ve taken a chance on Lord Scoundrel who could go well for in form connections. Seems to be lazy in front, but enjoys a cut and just does enough when he gets there.
14:35 Ifg/willis E.B.F. Mares Hurdle (grade 3) – Princess Leya heads the betting after her win the last day was franked by a good win from Shantou Ed. She got 17lbs from the handicapper for that and steps up to this level. I couldn’t have her at the price. On official ratings Analifet would have a fair bit in hand over these, but a disappointing racecourse return after injury the last day leaves questions to be answered. A significant challenger is Fairytale Theatre of Dan Skelton’s. However, Carraigmoorna Rock was impressive when readily winning a listed contest at Newbury for Robert Tyner the last day and this could be well within her range.
15:05 Topaz Novice Chase (Grade 1) – A great race that could hold a Cheltenham clue or two. Interesting that Cooper and Carberry have over looked Cheltenham festival winner Very Wood. A legitimate case can be made for each, but one I like at the price is Apache Stronghold who could go well if he receives a slightly quieter ride than he did the last day.
15:35 Ryanair Flat Race – I’ve been impressed with Finian McGrath’s riding over the last couple of days and he looks valuable for his 7lb claim. Vigil will benefit greatly from that and is one for the Lucky 15.
That’s it folks! Hopefully we can find a few!
Slán tamaillín,
T
Turf Talk 