Heading to Leopardstown this afternoon for three top class contests. The unseasonably mild weather suggests the track will ride quicker than usual, but that should not greatly inconvenience the main protagonists. The Lexus tops the bill and following Long Run's defeat, Michael O'Leary's Quito De La Roque is presented with the opportunity to forward his case for consideration in the build up to the Gold Cup. Impressive last season this powerful stayer collared Sizing Europe at Down Royal last time to continue his winning sequence. Today's race may not turn out to be the endurance test anticipated but with doubts about Rubi Light's stamina and Joncol's form, he appears the most likely.
A trio of Mr O'Leary's squadron of up and coming chasers contest the Fort Leney. The market can't separate the main two, First Lieutenant and Last Instalment. Both are worthy and although Davey Russell is due to pick the right one, I feel that Last Instalment is more advanced in his jumping education and he gets the nod. That said, one is very slow to desert First Lieutenant, and he may be the better longer term prospect. Nevertheless fair dues to the connections for running both.
In the Staying Hurdle, Voler La Vedette and Mourad re oppose. The mare came out on top last time but the extra half mile should favour Mourad and expect him to reprise last year's victory.
All in all looking forward to an exciting afternoon and great to have AP and Ruby in action.
best of ...
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