Spider can get punters off to flyer in Guinness

THE 2008 Guinness Trophy kicks-off at Curraheen Park tonight and backers can enjoy a winning start by supporting Spider Said in heat one.

The selection earned himself plenty of admirers with a series of top runs in last year’s Cashmans Irish Laurels.

Spider Said won three rounds before finishing fourth to Catunda Harry in the classic decider where a stumble at trap-rise put paid to his chances.

He contested the Kingdom Derby Consolation final before disappointing on his last start here in mid December.

That was his fifth race in as many weeks, however, and given a break by connections this early pacer can bounce back.

The highly promising Ardrath Boy gets the vote in heat two. John Kiely’s runner carded a superb 29.08 before finishing an unlucky second in a sweepstake at Youghal last term.

This represents a big step up in class but a recent 17.75 solo spin augurs well for his chances.

Graysland Buddy, unbeaten in two starts at Clonmel at the back end of last year, carding 29.02 and 29.14, can also successfully step up in class in heat three.

The consistent and well drawn Stone Rig Rascal and the promising Broadacres Turbo will have their supporters in heat four, but preference is for Click Click.

Perry Aylward’s runner showed smart form in top company last year, notably finishing second in the Waterford Masters final, and can avail of an ease in grade here.

Leamaneigh Flash and Tyrur Lee look a likely pair in heat five, with the former given preference.

The improving Leamaneigh Flash, who boasts a record of four wins from nine starts, and can gain compensation for an unlucky effort at Limerick last time in heat five.

Tyrur Lee carded 29.99 over 500 yards here in December, but has been unplaced in two of his three starts since.

Paul Hennessy meanwhile can collect with the prolific scorer Disco Stu in heat six.