December 27 / 15.00 Leopardstown

15.00

Yielding

Paddy Power Chase (Extended Handicap Chase) (Grade B)

  • Prize money: £92436.97
  • 3m 0f 50y
  • 31 runners
RTE2
View Course
Paddy Power Chase (Extended Handicap Chase) (Grade B)

Runners: 31 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

40/1 (Won)

  • Win: £66.00
  • Place: £10.70

Form: P4-442

Last run: 58 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Sixth to his then stablemate Al Boum Photo in Gold Cup in 2020; has come way down in the ratings since then; second off 1lb lower at Galway in October but others preferred.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

10

24th Nov 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 24y

13:15 Punchestown

Real Steel

10st 11lb

J: Conor McNamara

T: E McNamara

Has put it together on the big day over fences more than once, winning the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown two years ago, and last time in the blinkers when winning the Munster National at Limerick; relatively unexposed over hurdles and is 18lb lower; likely to go from the front here and could be thereabouts.

6/1

12th

10

24th Nov 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 24y

13:15 Punchestown

Real Steel

10st 11lb

J: Conor McNamara

T: E McNamara

Has put it together on the big day over fences more than once, winning the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown two years ago, and last time in the blinkers when winning the Munster National at Limerick; relatively unexposed over hurdles and is 18lb lower; likely to go from the front here and could be thereabouts.

6/1

1st

14

20th Oct 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

15:50 Limerick

Real Steel

10st 8lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: E McNamara

jumped well, made all, kept on well from last, ridden out

16/1

22/1

  • Place: £11.80

Form: 410-92 D

Last run: 19 days

W: 11st 8lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Won valuable handicap at Naas in March (3m, heavy) off 8lb lower and nice prep run over hurdles at Clonmel latest having probably needed reappearance run in Cork Grand National; blinkers replace cheekpieces and 5lb claim will help.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12

28th Oct 2025

Soft

3m 1f 60y

Class 4

14:58 Ffos Las

Diol Ker

10st 12lb

J: Conor Ring

T: Evan Williams

Very useful in Ireland in his prime but 0-7 and generally very disappointing for Evan Williams since last autumn; returns from break on another career-low mark but considered only if lively in the betting.

33/1

12

28th Oct 2025

Soft

3m 1f 60y

Class 4

14:58 Ffos Las

Diol Ker

10st 12lb

J: Conor Ring

T: Evan Williams

Very useful in Ireland in his prime but 0-7 and generally very disappointing for Evan Williams since last autumn; returns from break on another career-low mark but considered only if lively in the betting.

33/1

3

14th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 4

15:22 Newton Abbot

Diol Ker

11st 11lb

J: Osian Radford

T: Evan Williams

High-class hurdler/chaser in his prime but has struggled for a long time now and although this is a welcome drop in grade he continues with something to prove; cheekpieces discarded.

14/1

6/1

  • Place: £2.30

Form: 00-144 C

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 13lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Course hurdles winner off 128 last Christmas; won chase debut at Punchestown in May; well touted for this and has warmed up for it with a couple of fair runs in Graded novice contests; lacks experience.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

11

1st May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Panda Boy

12st 0lb

J: Mr J L Gleeson

T: Martin Brassil

Smart staying handicap chaser in his prime; has found a new lease of life, winning two hunter chases at Thurles (beat Lifetime Ambition by 9l) and Naas (beat Hunters Yarn by 4l); might have found the ground a bit too quick when finishing fifth behind Barton Snow at Cheltenham; could play a featuring part.

5/1

5th

13

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Panda Boy

12st 0lb

J: Mr J L Gleeson

T: Martin Brassil

Has always had some class about him and he went off only 11-1 for the Grand National two seasons ago; lost his way afterwards but he's back in the good books after winning two hunter chases and the RPR he posted at Naas last month (3m, heavy; fine on good ground) was up there with his best; with confidence seemingly buoyed he's a must for the shortlist.

11/2

1st

4

7th Feb 2026

Soft

3m 0f 36y

16:35 Naas

Panda Boy

12st 0lb

J: Mr J L Gleeson

T: Martin Brassil

A good staying handicap chaser without ever winning one; twice placed in the Paddy Power at Leopardstown, fifth in the 2023 Irish Grand National, third in last season's Leinster National at this venue; third on point debut in November; responding well to a prominent ride at Thurles; 9l runner-up Lifetime Ambition (stablemate of Hunters Yarn) is a solid yardstick.

11/10

Form: 3220-2 D BF

Last run: 65 days

W: 11st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Maiden over fences but had smart novice form; touched off by subsequent Troytown winner The Big Dog in Munster National at Limerick in October (missed the last when looking set for victory, four of these behind) and leading contender here despite 7lb hike.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Aint That A Shame

11st 7lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: T Ellis

Thyestes winner of 2024 for Henry de Bromhead (off 144) went on to finish decent sixth in Grand National but long absent until faller at the last after never featuring on yard debut in 3m bet365 Premier Chase at Kelso in February; best form on heavy so obvious ground concerns.

25/1

38

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Aint That A Shame

10st 2lb

J: Jack Andrews

T: T Ellis

Reserve; 12yo who had his finest hour when winning the Thyestes at Gowran Park (3m1f, heavy) in January 2024; sixth in that year's Grand National and he's 8lb lower today, but that's having raced just once since (having left Henry de Bromhead for £40,000 last October) when taking a final-fence fall, well beaten at the time, in a Listed event six weeks ago.

100/1

Form: 0FP-63

Last run: 37 days

W: 11st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Well exposed at this stage; seventh in last year's renewal; went close over 2m5f here in February (Gallant John Joe fourth); third over the banks course at Punchestown latest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Foxy Jacks

12st 3lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: M F Morris

4-29 over fences, including Midlands National at Kilbeggan last summer and a Cheltenham cross-country race (3m5f, good to soft) last November, having failed to compete on two earlier attempts at that course; finished third behind Delta Work over C&D in November 2022; struggling a long way from home in the Grand National.

9/2

3

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Foxy Jacks

12st 3lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: M F Morris

4-29 over fences, including Midlands National at Kilbeggan last summer and a Cheltenham cross-country race (3m5f, good to soft) last November, having failed to compete on two earlier attempts at that course; finished third behind Delta Work over C&D in November 2022; struggling a long way from home in the Grand National.

9/2

12

13th Apr 2024

Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

15:00 Aintree

Foxy Jacks

11st 4lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: M F Morris

Best of his runs on heavy was his win in a maiden hurdle in 2020; fell in the 2022 Topham over these fences; won a Cheltenham cross-country race (3m5f, good to soft) in November, having come a cropper on two earlier attempts at that course, but this 8lb higher mark seems to demand another major career best.

40/1

Form: 915-15

Last run: 97 days

W: 11st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Galway Blazers (2m6f) winner in July where he defeated Busselton but made mistakes when fifth to that rival in Kerry National; mark probably stiff enough at this stage and Blackmore deserts him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

5

28th Jun 2026

Good

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

16:03 Uttoxeter

Gabbys Cross

11st 2lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Georgina Nicholls

Campaigned mostly in veterans' chases during his spell with Nick Scholfield and this return to hurdles isn't guaranteed to produce a positive result on debut for another new stable; hasn't won since 2022.

20/1

8th

12

25th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

15:30 Sandown

Gabbys Cross

10st 7lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Nick Scholfield

Ex-Irish 11yo (six races for current yard) who has not won since 2022 but went close with first-time cheekpieces (kept since) over 3m2f at Newbury in February; second of three at Ascot (3m) in another veterans' race next time was creditable in the end, after he'd been detached at one point; that helps to envisage him as a stayer but he jumped poorly on heavy in Scottish National (40-1, pulled up) last week and this race also looks tough.

66/1

14

18th Apr 2026

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Gabbys Cross

11st 0lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Nick Scholfield

Ex-Irish 11yo (five races for current yard) who has not won since July 2022 but nearly put that right in first-time cheekpieces (kept since) over 3m2f at Newbury in February, losing out in the final strides; second of three at Ascot (3m) three weeks ago was creditable in the end, after he'd been detached at one point, and that helps to envisage him as a stayer, but this race is so much tougher.

33/1

Form: U4-822 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 11st 5lb

9 yo Mare

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Useful novice last term; second to Gabbys Cross at Naas in February having won Grade 2 mares' event at Thurles; touched off in Listed mares' chase at Clonmel last month; 6lb higher and best form at 2m4f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

8

27th Apr 2023

Yielding To Soft

2m 7f 130y

18:00 Punchestown

Ballyshannon Rose

11st 0lb

J: Cian Cullinan

T: P G Fahey

Decent mare has been running mostly over fences in the last two seasons; did run well over hurdles behind French Dynamite at Thurles last October and has a squeak.

20/1

8th

3

5th Feb 2023

Yielding

2m 5f 44y

14:40 Leopardstown

Ballyshannon Rose

11st 6lb

J: Cian Cullinan

T: P G Fahey

Strong galloping and sound jumping mare at her best; has come up short so far this season but was only beaten five lengths in the Paddy Power here and her run at Fairyhouse a few days later might have some too soon; could have each-way potential in a very open contest.

25/1

3rd

1

1st Jan 2023

Soft

2m 5f 30y

14:35 Fairyhouse

Ballyshannon Rose

11st 3lb

J: Cian Cullinan

T: P G Fahey

Useful mare won a Grade 2 chase at Thurles a year ago; was second to Dolcita in Listed company at Clonmel giving her 11lb, while she also ran a cracker in the Paddy Power Chase five days ago at Leopardstown; go well again if this doesn't come too soon.

9/2

Form: 441-41

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 13lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Beat Take All at Punchestown (extended 2m6f) and now 6lb higher; that was just his second handicap start so unexposed and should stay this longer trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

13th Feb 2025

Soft

3m 0f 37y

Class 3

15:05 Sandown

Farceur Du Large

12st 5lb

J: Maj Will Kellard

T: Jamie Snowden

Won the Grand Military Gold Cup over C&D last January and followed up in this race (also soft), both under Major Will Kellard; beaten just over 1l when second to Fil d'Ariane in the Grand Military Gold Cup three weeks ago but he's 5lb better off with the selection today and has solid claims.

5/2

2nd

1

24th Jan 2025

Good

3m 0f 37y

Class 3

15:00 Sandown

Farceur Du Large

12st 5lb

J: Maj Will Kellard

T: Jamie Snowden

disputed lead, prominent after 2nd, lost ground before 16th, not fluent 17th, hit 18th, not fluent 3 out

6/4

2nd

1

24th Jan 2025

Good

3m 0f 37y

Class 3

15:00 Sandown

Farceur Du Large

12st 5lb

J: Maj Will Kellard

T: Jamie Snowden

Ex-Irish gelding who won this quite comfortably 12 months ago on his first start for Jamie Snowden and followed up in February's Royal Artillery Gold Cup (again under Major Will Kellard); the horses he beat in both those races went on to win handicaps and he too ran well to be fifth in the Midlands National; the glaring concern is the very laboured return he made in a Newbury handicap, yet none of his rivals offered a lot more on their final starts.

6/4

Form: 4P7-82

Last run: 37 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Some smart form over 2m last term and back to his best when second to Farceur Du Large over extended 2m6f at Punchestown; 2lb higher and suspect stayer over a trip he's never tried.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

20

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

15:30 Aintree

Take All

12st 0lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

Good efforts in defeat behind Java Point (3m, good to soft) and Unexposed Party (2m6f, good to soft) this year and ran well for a long way before fading at last month's Cheltenham Festival (3m2f); could have an each-way shout at big odds now back down in trip; reapplied cheekpieces replace hood.

40/1

8th

19

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Take All

12st 0lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

125-1 for this last year but was still travelling within himself when falling three out; returns on the back of a positive performance at Haydock when just ahead of Shearer; hood returns; he's no forlorn hope by any means.

50/1

2nd

4

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 6f 54y

Class 3

16:30 Haydock

Take All

12st 1lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

Ran well when fifth in this race a year ago (good to soft) and has some notable form since, including fourth of 16 in amateur riders' handicap at Cheltenham (3m1f, heavy) in November and third in recent Ludlow hunter chase (3m, good to soft); can make his presence felt.

7/1

Form: 5U9-00

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Fine third off 2lb lower in this last year having filled same position in Irish Grand National; has had a couple of prep runs over hurdles and no surprise if Donoghue gets a good tune out of him over these fences.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

4th May 2026

Good

3m 5f 24y

Class 3

16:38 Fakenham

Enjoy Dallen

11st 4lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Won three times from the front (once over C&D) last season and lost out only narrowly in refitted cheekpieces at Plumpton (3m1f, good) a fortnight ago but this veteran is nothing like the force of old, and might find this race to competitive.

8/1

2nd

3

19th Apr 2026

Good

3m 1f 157y

Class 4

16:02 Plumpton

Enjoy Dallen

11st 12lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Veteran chaser who landed his third win of the season, over C&D (soft) in February when getting the better of Lumi Plugin; found the Sussex National back here 13 days ago a tad too competitive but cannot be dismissed here back in the right grade.

7/2

7th

11

6th Apr 2026

Good

3m 4f 104y

Class 2

16:25 Plumpton

Enjoy Dallen

10st 6lb

J: Miss Lily Jones

T: Neil King

Three wins in small fields this season (2m5f-3m5f, good/soft) and another good run when second of three at Sedgefield (3m2f, good) recently; however, there's a suspicion this 12yo will find today's race too competitive.

20/1

Form: /111U/ C BF

Last run: 1022 days

W: 11st 10lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Smart bumper and hurdles performer won first three races over fences in 2019/20; not seen since Cheltenham in March 2020 where he was beaten in third when unseating at the last in the National Hunt Chase; readily opposed after a mammoth absence.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

10

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Carefully Selected

11st 1lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: W P Mullins

Produced a tired unseat at the final fence when 10-11 over 3m6f at Cheltenham in March 2020 on his only attempt at a long-distance chase; absent 1022 days before this season but short-head win from Dunboyne in the Thyestes at Gowran (3m1f, soft to heavy) showed he's as good as ever, a game effort too but he needs to bounce back from a lesser show one month later.

50/1

4th

2

25th Feb 2023

Yielding

3m 1f 110y

15:55 Fairyhouse

Carefully Selected

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Dual Grade 3 winner as a novice came back from a long absence this season, winning the Thyestes Chase on his second start back; is more effective on soft ground but handles this too; Townend prefers Kemboy but still a major player.

9/4

1st

3

26th Jan 2023

Soft

3m 1f 0y

14:50 Gowran Park

Carefully Selected

11st 8lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Smart bumper and hurdles performer won his first three races over fences in 2019/20; beaten in third when unseating at the last in the 2020 National Hunt Chase; considering prolonged absence, did well to hold his place until nearing the closing stages of the Paddy Power; arguably leading hope now for the champion trainer who has won this four times in the last nine years.

13/2

Form: 112-53 D

Last run: 23 days

W: 10st 7lb

6 yo Mare

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Won over 2m4f on chase debut at Clonmel last term and second in mares' handicap at Punchestown festival; third in Porterstown Handicap over 3m5f at Fairyhouse last time and some of these may be too pacy for her.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 6f 9y

13:30 Punchestown

Western Zara

11st 7lb

J: Richard Deegan

T: Paul Nolan

Is 1-9 in chases; that win came in a mares' chase at Clonmel in March 2022; has run well here a couple of times in the past and she should strip fitter after a spin over hurdles at Navan; capable of making her presence felt off her current mark.

7/1

3

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 6f 9y

13:30 Punchestown

Western Zara

11st 7lb

J: Richard Deegan

T: Paul Nolan

Is 1-9 in chases; that win came in a mares' chase at Clonmel in March 2022; has run well here a couple of times in the past and she should strip fitter after a spin over hurdles at Navan; capable of making her presence felt off her current mark.

7/1

3

15th Dec 2024

Yielding To Soft

3m 1f 0y

13:10 Navan

Western Zara

11st 12lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Paul Nolan

Last two wins came back-to-back in the early months of 2022; failed to complete her final two starts before a break, fell in a chase at Punchestown, pulled up when well fancied for a handicap hurdle at Wexford; showed that she could run well fresh when second at Punchestown 13 months ago.

10/1

Form: 655-8P

Last run: 65 days

W: 11st 9lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Last win in 2020 Galway Plate but not had much racing since then; creditable fifth in this year's Irish National but pulled up in Munster National at Limerick on latest outing; blinkers replace cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

12th May 2025

Good

2m 7f 0y

19:43 Killarney

Early Doors

11st 11lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: E Bolger

Last year's winner is back to defend his crown; veteran beat the prolific Winged Leader at Oldtown in February; pulled up in the Tetratema at Gowran in March but much better effort when a 4l third at Cork (2m4f, yielding) last month; this trip will suit better; claims.

9/1

6th

3

12th May 2025

Good

2m 7f 0y

19:43 Killarney

Early Doors

11st 11lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: E Bolger

Last year's winner is back to defend his crown; veteran beat the prolific Winged Leader at Oldtown in February; pulled up in the Tetratema at Gowran in March but much better effort when a 4l third at Cork (2m4f, yielding) last month; this trip will suit better; claims.

9/1

3rd

2

21st Apr 2025

Yielding

2m 4f 0y

16:10 Cork

Early Doors

12st 0lb

J: Mr H C Swan

T: E Bolger

towards rear, headway before 4 out, went third before 3 out, stayed on

13/2

Form: -6F64P C

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 9lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Winner over 2m1f at last two Dublin Racing Festivals; fourth in Munster National over this trip but didn't show up in Troytown; loads of handicap experience and, given his track record, should give a good account of himself.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

13

15th Jun 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 4f 0y

17:12 Kilbeggan

A Wave Of The Sea

10st 5lb

J: Charlie O’Dwyer

T: J P Broderick

5-46 over fences, including three over C&D; is 1lb lower than when scoring here in September and took a step in the right direction when fifth over C&D on latest (behind Milan Forth); can't be discounted given his affinity for this venue.

18/1

5th

6

15th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 90y

19:40 Kilbeggan

A Wave Of The Sea

11st 6lb

J: Charlie O’Dwyer

T: J P Broderick

A Grade 1-winning juvenile hurdler in his younger days, far from the force of old but still well capable; latest win came in handicap chase over C&D in September; down the field at Leopardstown and in veterans' event at Wexford last twice; dropped 3lb; 3-6 at this track and each-way player.

12/1

12th

9

10th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 100y

18:38 Wexford

A Wave Of The Sea

10st 7lb

J: Simon Torrens

T: J P Broderick

Fine servant won a Grade 1 juvenile hurdle and most recent successes came in 2m4f Kilbeggan handicap chases last year; penultimate Thurles fourth his best recent effort, stamina test probably beyond him in valuable 2m6f Leopardstown handicap latest; more suitable trip/ground here and drops in grade.

8/1

Form: 27115U D

Last run: 23 days

W: 10st 10lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Versatile across the disciplines; won at Gowran before finishing fifth in Munster National on latest completed start in October when behind Ain't That A Shame, Donkey Years and A Wave Of the Sea.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

4m 1f 11y

15:40 Punchestown

Walking On Glass

11st 7lb

J: Peter Smithers

T: Padraig Roche

Dual-purpose sort; 4-38 over jumps, 4-30 on Flat; 66-1 when in rear throughout in the race won by Desertmore House here in November.

66/1

4

14th Oct 2025

Good

2m 7f 22y

16:36 Punchestown

Walking On Glass

11st 12lb

J: Peter Smithers

T: Padraig Roche

Dual-purpose; 3-27 over hurdles but without a win in this sphere since October 2022; beaten 7.5l over C&D off this mark in June; four modest efforts on the Flat since; others preferred.

14/1

Form: 11125- BF

Last run: 244 days

W: 11st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Smart hurdler won first three starts over fences before being touched off by very useful French Dynamite in Grade 3 at Thurles in March; fifth in Punchestown festival handicap (just behind Egality Mans) when last seen in April; first try over 3m and stiff task off topweight.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

2nd May 2025

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Ciel De Neige

12st 0lb

J: Mr B Dunleavy

T: Mary Ellen Doyle

prominent behind clear leader

33/1

3

2nd May 2025

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Ciel De Neige

12st 0lb

J: Mr B Dunleavy

T: Mary Ellen Doyle

prominent behind clear leader

33/1

10th

1

23rd Sep 2024

Good

2m 3f 188y

Class 4

16:15 Sedgefield

Ciel De Neige

12st 0lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Ben Haslam

Formerly smart; yet to be placed for Ben Haslam (mostly chasing) but mark continues to fall and there have been positive signs; not ruled out.

7/1

25/1

Form: 1P-628 D

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Beat Donkey Years off 131 at Fairyhouse in April (3m); second to Captain Kangaroo over 3m4f at Cork but well beaten in Troytown at Navan on latest start.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

17

19th Nov 2023

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 0y

14:30 Navan

Defi Bleu

10st 9lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: Gordon Elliott

Well held eighth in this last year in similar conditions and he unseated five out on his return last month so he may still need a run to get going; has place claims if he is fully tuned up but others are more solid.

25/1

0

7

22nd Oct 2023

Heavy

3m 0f 0y

16:15 Limerick

Defi Bleu

10st 12lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: Gordon Elliott

Failed to win last season after starting the campaign with sixth placing in this event; showed good form on his final three starts; third to Coko Beach in 3m4f National Trial at Punchestown, fifth in the Kim Muir, and a battling third of six finishers in 27-runner Irish Grand National, 1 1/2l behind stablemate Gevrey.

12/1

3rd

20

10th Apr 2023

Soft

3m 5f 0y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Defi Bleu

10st 2lb

J: Gavin Brouder

T: Gordon Elliott

Knows what these sort of races are about but he's none too predictable and finished behind some of these in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham; would be a surprise winner.

28/1

Form: 0-2353 D

Last run: 16 days

W: 10st 13lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Galway Blazers winner last year and fifth in Kery National; fifth to Gabbys Cross in this year's renewal of the Blazers in July; had a prep for this behind Energumene at Cork and could go well at a price.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

10th

6

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

midfield

12/1

Form: 542-23

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 1lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Maiden over fences but has been highly tried; fair fourth in 2m5f handicap here at the Dublin Racing Festival in February and far from a forlorn hope off 4lb lower mark with good claimer on board; tries 3m for the first time and it may well suit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

0

2

30th Aug 2023

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 90y

17:40 Bellewstown

Gallant John Joe

11st 11lb

J: Phillip Enright

T: Oliver McKiernan

in touch with leaders

25/1

0

6

5th Aug 2023

Good To Yielding

2m 6f 108y

14:30 Galway

Gallant John Joe

11st 2lb

J: Phillip Enright

T: Oliver McKiernan

Lightly-raced veteran and has come back quite well from a long period on the sidelines; good second in a staying handicap hurdle at Punchestown in February and again in a 3m conditions hurdle at Cork last month; goes on any ground and should give a good account.

14/1

2nd

5

14th Jul 2023

Good

3m 0f 0y

19:35 Cork

Gallant John Joe

11st 0lb

J: Phillip Enright

T: Oliver McKiernan

prominent, ridden after 3 out, chased clear leader 2 out, ridden and headway run-in, no impression towards finish

8/1

Form: -10230

Last run: 24 days

W: 11st 5lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Progressive handicapper was second in Kerry National and third to Captain Kangaroo over 3m4f at Cork; poor run in Becher Chase at Aintree; has been on the go all year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

33

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

17:15 Aintree

Recite A Prayer

10st 2lb

J: Jack Foley

T: W P Mullins

All his three wins under rules were on good ground but his third of 17 in the Cork National (3m4f) came in the mud; major backward steps in his two races since (he's been off since Christmas) and the first of them was over these fences.

66/1

20th

12

27th Dec 2022

Yielding

3m 0f 50y

15:00 Leopardstown

Recite A Prayer

11st 5lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

in touch with leaders on inner, lost position and pushed along before 3 out, soon weakened

18/1

12th

6

3rd Dec 2022

Good To Soft

3m 1f 188y

Class 1

14:05 Aintree

Recite A Prayer

11st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Won two handicap chases in the spring and has continued the good work in autumn, finishing second in the Kerry National (3m, good) then third to stablemate Captain Kangaroo in the Cork National (3m4f, soft to heavy); this 7yo could have more to offer for his top trainer and is respected.

12/1

Form: 675235 CD

Last run: 76 days

W: 11st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Former Grade 1 winner not the force of old but was fair fifth to Hewick in Galway Plate; now 2lb lower with 7lb claimer engaged; well beaten in Grade 3 contest won by stablemate Galvin at Punchestown in October.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

15

20th Oct 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

15:50 Limerick

Battleoverdoyen

10st 7lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Veteran stepped up on hunter chase form with a battling win in the Galway Blazers Chase; that proved he is not a back number but the stable has stronger candidates for this.

16/1

1st

18

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Battleoverdoyen

10st 11lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

towards rear

50/1

Form: 41F-4P

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 7lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
1-6 over fences; disappointing when favourite in Down Royal Grade 2 on reappearance and pulled up after mistake at halfway in Troytown; not one to write off by any means and good claimer booked.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

18th May 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

18:30 Uttoxeter

Fighter Allen

12st 0lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: David Pipe

took keen hold, prominent

25/1

1

18th May 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

18:30 Uttoxeter

Fighter Allen

12st 0lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: David Pipe

took keen hold, prominent

25/1

Form: 6U0-U3

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 3lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Veteran won Grand National Trial at Punchestown last year and was third, but beaten 18l, in the Troytown last month; former Grade 1 winner stays all day but others less exposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

3

19th Feb 2023

Yielding To Soft

3m 4f 40y

14:10 Punchestown

Death Duty

11st 1lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: Gordon Elliott

Won this event off this mark last year, accounting for several of these rivals, including stablemate Coko Beach; closely matched with Coko Beach on running in this season's Troytown; made a bad mistake the 12th in the Paddy Power and was pulled-up; same mark as last season, each-way chance with useful 5lb claimer.

6/1

13

27th Dec 2022

Yielding

3m 0f 50y

15:00 Leopardstown

Death Duty

11st 3lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

midfield, bad mistake 12th, soon pulled up

14/1

3rd

10

27th Nov 2022

Soft

3m 0f 0y

14:20 Navan

Death Duty

11st 2lb

J: Davy Russell

T: Gordon Elliott

Dual Grade 1 winner back in 2017 doesn't operate at that sort of level nowadays but still capable of popping up in a decent staying handicap chase, as shown when landing Punchestown Grand National Trial off just 2lb lower last season; came down at the last when looking as though he was staying on to finish fourth or fifth in the Munster National last time; player.

16/1

Form: /12RP-

Last run: 261 days

W: 11st 3lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Promising novice who won on chase debut at Naas last term until becoming recalcitrant and losing his way for Henry de Bromhead; owner is dynamite at sourcing horses with upside and intriguing runner if new trainer has sweetened him up.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the 4m2f Midlands Grand National last March; that, however, was the last time he's completed and he's mostly been back to his old tricks since by refusing to race; last two "starts" were for new connections but he didn't start at all on the first of those and threw in the towel at a later point three weeks ago.

66/1

1

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the 4m2f Midlands Grand National last March; that, however, was the last time he's completed and he's mostly been back to his old tricks since by refusing to race; last two "starts" were for new connections but he didn't start at all on the first of those and threw in the towel at a later point three weeks ago.

66/1

1

22nd Mar 2025

Good

3m 2f 39y

Class 2

13:15 Kelso

Mr Incredible

12st 0lb

J: Ryan Mania

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up off this mark for Willie Mullins in the Midlands Grand National last March; however, he can often be reluctant at the start and he refused to race on his stable debut at Wetherby in December; very risky.

12/1

Form: 134-30

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 12lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Fair novice who won over 3m1f at Wexford in March and was a running-on fourth in 2m5f handicap at Punchestown festival; was disappointing in Troytown on his return but headgear and crack 5lb claimer may well help and better expected.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

15th Jun 2024

Good

2m 4f 28y

Class 3

18:30 Hexham

Egality Mans

11st 7lb

J: Joe Williamson

T: Philip Kirby

Formerly a useful hurdler/chase for Willie Mullins; bought for £20,000 in May 2023; pulled up both starts pointing this year; plenty to prove on stable debut following wind surgery.

33/1

4th

7

14th May 2023

Good To Yielding

3m 2f 0y

16:55 Killarney

Egality Mans

10st 11lb

J: Kieran Callaghan

T: W P Mullins

Has seemingly been out of form over fences this season, only completing three out of his six starts; latest effort at Punchestown when finishing fifth, beaten 13l; step up in trip will suit and his jumping needs to hold up if he is to be in the mix.

20/1

5th

7

26th Apr 2023

Yielding To Soft

2m 5f 50y

19:05 Punchestown

Egality Mans

10st 1lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

midfield, dropped to rear 4th, hampered by faller 8th

12/1

Form: 321-93 D

Last run: 65 days

W: 10st 11lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Beat Recite A Prayer over this trip at Punchestown in April; third in Munster National in October and 7lb better off with runner-up Ain't That A Shame; probably still on a fair mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

10

25th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 200y

16:13 Galway

Donkey Years

10st 6lb

J: Calum Hogan

T: E McNamara

Likes a stamina test, most recent win coming in 3m Listowel handicap hurdle over a year ago (soft) off 117; back from chasing when soundly beaten in repeat win attempt there last month so has it to prove now.

12/1

13th

5

24th Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

3m 0f 0y

15:50 Listowel

Donkey Years

11st 8lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: E McNamara

Reverts from chasing in a bid to repeat last year's win in this event; only 2lb higher; ground will suit him better than on recent chase starts; worth considering, though his much younger stablemate Bitofajokelike seems more appealing.

12/1

7th

4

6th Aug 2025

Good

3m 1f 70y

19:17 Wexford

Donkey Years

11st 4lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: E McNamara

Last chase success was over three years ago at the 2022 Punchestown festival; getting on in years now; hard to be confident in the circumstances.

12/1

Form: 64421U D

Last run: 24 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
It all came right off 10lb lower mark in 3m4f Cork National where he readily beat Defi Bleu and Recite A Prayer; unseated halfway in Becher Chase; jumped well for Callaghan at Cork and he's back on board.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

18th Mar 2023

Soft

4m 2f 8y

Class 1

15:00 Uttoxeter

Captain Kangaroo

10st 8lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Has National honours having won the Cork version in November (3m4f, soft/heavy); it's been a sorry state of affairs since then with four non-completions and, while his trainer can work wonders, he's not overly appealing with that background.

20/1

7

19th Feb 2023

Yielding To Soft

3m 4f 40y

14:10 Punchestown

Captain Kangaroo

10st 9lb

J: Jack Foley

T: W P Mullins

Beat Defi Bleu in the Munster National, now 10lb higher; let down by his jumping over the National fences in the Becher and in the Paddy Power; reportedly made a noise when pulled up in the Thyestes; not a betting proposition against that background.

16/1

Form: /4U59-

Last run: 289 days

W: 10st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Well held since winning off 121 at Punchestown in late 2020 and lacks the prep run which his record suggests would have enhanced his chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

8

19th Feb 2023

Yielding To Soft

3m 4f 40y

14:10 Punchestown

Stones And Roses

10st 7lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Not much of note in his form since winning off a 9lb lower mark here in late 2020; fifth to Death Duty when favourite for this race 12 months ago; remote ninth behind Diol Ker on final start last season; 66-1 when pulled-up after a bad mistake three out on his reappearance in the Paddy Power.

16/1

20

26th Jan 2023

Soft

3m 1f 0y

14:50 Gowran Park

Stones And Roses

10st 5lb

J: Jack Foley

T: W P Mullins

Not much of note in his form since winning off a 9lb lower mark at Punchestown in late-2020; 66-1 when pulled-up after a bad mistake three out on his reappearance in the Paddy Power; second reserve.

26

27th Dec 2022

Yielding

3m 0f 50y

15:00 Leopardstown

Stones And Roses

10st 9lb

J: Jack Foley

T: W P Mullins

soon led, headed but prominent 12th, weakening and towards rear when bad mistake 3 out, pulled up after 2 out

33/1

Form: -14256

Last run: 30 days

W: 10st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
First reserve; Galway novice winner kept plugging away when 22l sixth in Troytown on handicap bow and that experience will stand to him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

5th Feb 2023

Yielding

2m 5f 44y

14:40 Leopardstown

Rambranltjac

10st 8lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Galway novice winner; not a bad first handicap effort when sixth in the Troytown; still open to improvement but might just need more of a trip on this ground.

12/1

19

26th Jan 2023

Soft

3m 1f 0y

14:50 Gowran Park

Rambranltjac

10st 5lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Galway novice winner; not a bad first handicap effort when sixth in the Troytown, only just behind the beaten favourite Frontal Assault; only horse of his age among the 21 declared, open to improvement; first reserve.

29

27th Dec 2022

Yielding

3m 0f 50y

15:00 Leopardstown

Rambranltjac

10st 7lb

J: Richard Deegan

T: W P Mullins

First reserve; Galway novice winner kept plugging away when 22l sixth in Troytown on handicap bow and that experience will stand to him.

Form: PF-323

Last run: 130 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 129

Form & Verdict
Second reserve; useful hurdler but 12-race maiden over fences; has had a break since August.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

0

4

30th Jul 2023

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

15:45 Uttoxeter

Alfa Mix

11st 8lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Ben Haslam

prominent, lost ground 4 out

25/1

1

27th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

3m 2f 127y

Class 3

16:05 Perth

Alfa Mix

12st 0lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Ben Haslam

0-13 over fences for Gavin Cromwell and made that 0-14 when pulled up on his debut for Ben Haslam; could be happier back over hurdles (2-7) and potentially on a perfectly fair mark.

20/1

1

21st Mar 2023

Soft

3m 0f 45y

Class 3

16:00 Wetherby

Alfa Mix

11st 10lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Ben Haslam

0-13 over fences for Gavin Cromwell and well beaten in December when last seen, but he's been placed several times and the betting could be informative on his first run for Ben Haslam (remains in same ownership).

12/1

OUR TIP

Form: 212111 D

Last run: 52 days

W: 10st 6lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 129

Form & Verdict
Third reserve; diminutive Flat-bred has taken really well to fences and won his last three; engaged over 2m1f here on Monday.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

29

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Final Orders

10st 5lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Gavin Cromwell

10yo who's had 70 races (only one of today's rivals has managed even half that) and won 11; latest was the 3m5f cross-country at Cheltenham Festival, comfortably holding off Favori De Champdou for career-best form off the same mark as today; having taken so well to that discipline (he also won there in December) and produced his best performances away from soft ground, he has to be considered seriously.

25/1

1st

3

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Final Orders

10st 9lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Gavin Cromwell

High-mileage 10yo who took very well to this C&D (good) in December, winning quite comfortably by just over 4l; weakened into fifth in soft-ground C&D contest won by Favori De Champdou in January but ran well for a long way and ought to be better suited by the less testing conditions today; each-way claims at least.

7/1

5th

2

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

Final Orders

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

High-mileage 10yo who took very well to this C&D (good) last month, leading from the ninth fence and beating J'Arrive De L'Est quite comfortably by over 4l; went up 9lb for that, though, and may not be ideally suited by the slower ground today.

4/1

Non-runners

Rambranlt'jac, Alfa Mix, Final Orders

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta €4187.40
Straight Forecast €1046.14
Tricast €9281.05
Trifecta €0.00

Selections

RP Ratings (IRE):

Take All

The Irish Sun:

Gabbys Cross

SPOTLIGHT:

Egality Mans

POSTDATA:

Defi Bleu

TOPSPEED:

Take All