1:55
Ballybough Native made an impressive debut when he won a Tipperary bumper under Jamie Codd and looks a classy recruit for hurdling. It is a surprise to see connections running him here when they could keep him as a Novice for next season and so he must be expected to be ready to make a good start over obstacles. Level Neverending was beaten at short odds at Fairyhouse, but that was his first run since October, and he has achieved the most of those with experience.
2:30
Vaucelet bounced back from his defeat at Down Royal to win a Point at Portrush with any amount in hand last month, he is the most likely improver in this lineup as he is only a 7-year-old. He should go well under Jamie Codd, and it is very hard to see him out of the frame.
3:05
La Chanteuse and Daphne Moon are very closely matched after they finished 3rd and 4th at Down Royal last month. From the same marks they should both go close in what looks to be a slightly weaker contest and the form of that Down Royal race looks to set the standard here.
3:40
Jody Townend comes in for the ride on Fox Watch for Tony Mullins and he looks to have a solid chance after an impressive win at Wexford when he stepped up to this trip for the first time. Rightplacerightime was 7th in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham under Maxine O’Sullivan and that looks to be the strongest form on offer, so he also goes on the list.
4:15
Eric Bloodaxe disappointed in the Albert Bartlett last time, but this represents a drop into much calmer waters and he could well outclass his rivals here. My Immortal brings the best handicap form after his comfortable win at Punchestown and looks to have been saved for this race by his shrewd connections. Willie Mullins’ unexposed Belle Metal looks just the type to improve for the step up in trip and is also worth including in an open race.
4:50
Iberique du Seuil was 7th in the Boodles at the festival and still looks to have a workable handicap mark, especially as the way he was ridden at Cheltenham meant that he could never really land a blow. Eskylane has been off since October, but he does bring a very good level of form into this race and may be able to go well after a break despite having a big weight to carry. Farout ran well enough in the County hurdle to suggest that he can also go well here.
