Kilbegganlooks a likely Ladin Pierse
Four against the field are Essex, Silk Screen, Leonard de Vinci and Kilbeggan Lad.
I propose taking a chance with Kilbeggan Lad, despite the fact he has to compete from 6lbs out of the handicap. On the credit side is the fact that he will be partnered by a competent 7lbs claimer.
The selection has struggled for a bit of form all season, but hinted there might be better to come when chasing home Ground Ball at Leopardstown last time.
It was his performance here in February, though, that makes one think him capable of running a big race. Kilbeggan Lad was beaten three lengths into second place - he got the contest in the stewards’ room - by Champion Hurdle candidate, Macs Joy.
Southern Vic, who did us a favour at Leopardstown, is again entrusted with the nap selection in the PBS Hurdle. He landed some decent wagers when easily taking his maiden then and is fancied to make the step up in class.
Newmill can get back on the winning trial in the Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Novice Chase.
A top class novice hurdler, Thomas O’Leary’s charge has yet to translate that ability to this game. His latest performance, in the Grade One Durkan New Homes Novice Chase at Leopardstown, was particularly disappointing.
He trailed in a well beaten fifth behind Mariah Rollins, giving himself little chance after pulling hard in the early part of the race.
Newmill goes really well for Barry Geraghty and, hopefully, will settle a lot better now with that pilot back in the plate.
Ruby Walsh, who has a good record on Lanmire Glen, is a significant booking for Francis Flood’s gelding in the Pierse Leopardstown Chase.
The eight-year-old ran a solid race behind Keepatem at Leopardstown and gets a tentative vote.
