DOUBLE GRADE 1 ACTION: SHAMROCK previews the two Grade 1 races on Thursday’s card at Punchestown.
Two Grade 1 races this afternoon on the third day of the Festival.
5:30 Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle (Grade 1) (4yo+, Class 1, 3m, 12 runners)
We’re treated to an action replay of the Stayers’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival with the first three renewing rivalry but will it be the same result?
Unowhatimeanharry started an odds-on favourite at Cheltenham but could only finish a three and a half length third to Nichols Canyon and Lil Rockerfeller who fought out a driving finish. It would be no surprise to see Lil Rockerfeller turn that form around on this track but there’s a huge danger to the trio lurking in the shape of Sutton Place.
The Gordon Elliott trained runner continues to impress and after his smooth success in the Ladbrokes Ireland Boyne Hurdle in February fully deserves to take his chance at the top level today.
This is also his first attempt at the trip but he stayed on so well at Navan over two miles five furlongs to suggest that the extended trip will be well within his radar.
6:40 Ryanair Novice Chase (Grade 1) (5yo+, Class 1, 2m, 8 runners)
Willie Mullins saddles three, including the hugely progressive Great Field who looks set to give the Champion trainer a hat-trick in the race.
He’s not in the same league as the last two winners – Douvan and Un De Sceaux but is winning by wide margins and slammed Hurricane Ben by an eased down 32 lengths last time out in a Listed contest at Thurles.
He had an easy time of it up front that day and this will be much tougher but Great Field and Jody McGarvey look a winning combo.
SHAMROCK’S BETS:
NAP: Great Field (6.40 Punchestown)
NEXT BEST: Sutton Place (5.30 Punchestown)
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