Fairyhouse preview

There ought to be plenty of Grand National clues in the featured Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse on Saturday, with the majority of the nine-strong field engaged in the Aintree spectacular.

Black Apalachi comfortably landed the spoils twelve months ago, and in company with last year’s Becher Chase hero Vic Venturi gives trainer Dessie Hughes a strong hand. However Notre Pere, one of three joint top-weights for the National, is surely the one to beat following a creditable fourth behind Joncol in the Hennessy a fortnight ago.

Dorset Square appeared to be given too much to do when runner-up to Colbert Station at Leopardstown last month and despite being 7lb higher makes considerable appeal in the 2m4f handicap hurdle. Prolific winner Steviemac and former stable-mate Conclave are amongst his more interesting rivals, while Siege Of Ennis is capable of a good run at a price.

Alaivan, a bitter disappointment at Leopardstown over Christmas after an impressive hurdles bow at Gowran Park, has a good opportunity to get his Triumph Hurdle claims back on track in the Grade 2 juvenile hurdle. Gigginstown House youngster Carlito Brigante was an impressive winner of that contest and the same owner’s pair Big Game Hunter and Politeo provide the main opposition today.

Categories: Horse racing