Vic warrants nap vote

Invariably the commencement of the Townviewfoods.com Champion Stakes signals the arrival of “Derby fever” at Shelbourne Park and there will be an extra lift to the racegoers’ strides at headquarters this evening where a high-class programme includes the three semis of both the Champion and the associated Plate.

Befitting such cut-throat two-run competitions there will be no easy touches but one suspects a banker for many will be Liam Dowling’s Ballymac Vic.

In recent weeks he has progressed from potential star to leading Derby contender. Indeed, he sits atop all betting lists for this €competition on the back of a very promising second in the Race of Champions at Tralee and then the 29.47 success over course and distance last week.

Further enhancing his prospects is a trap one draw. That should see him safely lead up the inside and he warrants the nap vote.

Phil Gough’s Sparta Maestro can take the second heat, though he faces a huge task in a star-studded contest. Droopys Jet is well drawn but Razldazl Jayfkay and Tyrur Big Mike may be tougher nuts to crack.

Despite advancing years, Big Mike is capable of storming clear and that may suit Sparta better than a possible bumping match on the first bend. The massive finishing pace of the Waterford dog can win out.

In the opening heat the big question mark surrounds the well-being of Rockchase Bullet. His form since the Derby has been patchy but there was nothing lacklustre about his brilliant trial spin at Limerick last week. Could Ronny Wuyts have timed his preparation so perfectly?