Hi all,
The possibility of heavy overnight rain means Clonmel must pass a morning inspection. Let’s hope the racing takes place given it’s due to be covered by ITV. No problems at Taunton where the going is described as good.
Clonmel
The big race at Clonmel is the Grade 2 Clonmel Oil Chase (3:00) which looks a match between the Willie Mullins pair of Cilaos Emery & Bachasson. It could be a good day for the trainer, as Cabaret Queen is fancied for the Listed Mares Chase (2:25). From a betting perspective I can leave both races alone and look at the handicap chase (3:35).
3:35 – Getaday shaped with promise when 2nd of 11 in a Wexford beginners chase. That was only the 7-year-old’s second start over fences and he looks capable of winning a handicap chase off a mark 109. Best form over hurdles came on heavy ground so underfoot conditions shouldn’t hold any fears for him either.
1pt win – Getaday – 15/2 @ Bet365
Taunton
ITV are broadcasting two races from the Somerset track this afternoon. The 2:05 doesn’t hold much appeal with a long odds favourite in the shape of Tomorrow Mystery who looks well ahead of her mark.
2:40 – The 2m 7f handicap chase looks more competitive. Another Stowaway is on a good mark, if in the mood, but he’s a difficult one to catch right. I see Tom Segal has gone for him in his Racing Post Pricewise column.
Irish Prophecy ran Badger Beers Trophy Winner El Presente to a length at Exeter last month. Up 7lb, but that form is arguably the best in the field. He’s well suited to a sound surface and this sharper track should suit.
Pontresina was first past the post on his chase debut at Fontwell, lost the race in the stewards’ room, but made amends when winning at Kempton 25-days ago. The 7-year-old is already better chaser than a hurdler and has only been put up 4lb for his Kempton success. Needs to improve again but that seems likely for a yard 6-20 +24.91 in the past 14-days.
1pt win – Pontresina – 5/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes
Cheers
John