A break in the weather inspired a trek to Punchestown for the John Durkan Chase. It was a first visit to "the home of Irish NH racing". The course could be best described as idiosyncratic with the paddock area seemingly larger than the track. The betting facilities were somewhat cramped and would imagine that it might be a tad uncomfortable with a large attendance. The hurdle races were run on the inner track which precluded any decent view of the finishes. The big screen did not help either and one would have needed the Hubble telescope to get a good view. Nevertheless, the fare on offer was pretty good and one enjoyed a pleasant afternoon among a knowledgeable crowd. The track itself with it's undulations ensures a good test and one would imagine that course form is the key to picking winners.
The feature was won by Joncol who lasted home stronger than his rivals who all failed to jump properly. In Compliance ran well enough to chase him home but as he is probably a spent force, it is doubtful that this was true Grade 1 form. Aran Concerto looked well if not a little fragile in the paddock and he appeared to be running a good race before weakening dramatically 4 out. Injuries have meant that we will never see him reach full potential but he could win a nice race on better ground.
Lenabane with decent form lines was star performer of the day, winning a good beginners chase after blundering at the second last. He is a half brother to Moscow Flyer and worth keeping an eye on. Coole River looked very well in the paddock but disappointed probably due to going but may need further and finally Mrs Harrington's Hugo de Vindecy was an easy winner of maiden further boosting Irish form in this grade.
cheers....
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