Budgie can set ball rolling for Hennessy

PAUL HENNESSY is the trainer to follow in the first round of the Guinness Trophy at Curraheen Park tonight.

He can set the ball rolling with track record holder Fat Budgie and Blonde Mac in heats two and three respectively.

Fat Budgie is back to form in recent weeks, recording back-to-back 28.79 and 28.99 wins over this course and distance. A trap four draw is a worry, but he should have the early to go clear.

Blonde Mac was unplaced last time but on his best running should have the measure of these rivals.

He includes a 28.40 course and distance effort among his 10 career wins and a trap one draw is a major plus.

Hennessy’s hand is further strengthened by ante-post favourite Tyrur Daryl in heat six.

The three-times winner showed his class when recording a 28.47 success at Shelbourne in November. He stumbled when fourth at the Dublin track last time but a switch to the inside could be just what the doctor ordered.

Punters can have a winning start by supporting Hi Tip in the opening heat. Stephen Bourke’s seven times winner would be better suited by an inside berth but a recent 28.68 trap-to-line success augurs well for his chances.

Hennessy’s Tyrur Jim will have his followers in heat four but preference is for local favourite - the John Linehan trained Historic Moment.

John Kiely can strike with Sleek Mountain in heat five.

Selections

1st race: Im The Lad (Sutty Aidan)

2nd race: Creamery Cert (Hectic Times)

3rd race: Rarity (Emilys Rose)

4th race: Leeview Belle (When You Like)

5th race: Hi Tip (Broadacres Harry)

6th race: Fat Budgie (Jesceda Lad)

7th race: Blonde Mac (Reigning Champ)

8th race: Yes Indeed (Travara Rebel)

9th race: Historic Moment (Tyrur Jim)

10th race: Sleek Mountain (Asian De Vieri)

11th race: Tyrur Daryl (Student Pass).