Go for Young Vintage
Noel Meade, who has his horses in terrific shape, gave the selection an unusual preparation for this test when running her over an extended five furlongs at Navan last month.
That was Young Vintage’s first outing since finishing fifth of 26 behind You Need Luck over flights at Navan in November.
The three horses immediately in front of Meade’s charge then, Cupla Cairde, Corrib Boy and Seaforde, all scored subsequently.
The four-year-old should strip fresher and can enjoy a first success over jumps.
Only four are set to face the starter in the Nore Valley ’Chase and one of them, the outclassed Runfar, can surely be safely discounted. Thari has been largely disappointing for a long time now, so this may develop into a match between Quadco and Jurado Express.
Quadco emphasised his current well-being when runner-up behind Wests Awake at Roscommon on Monday night, but preference is for Jurado Express.
He doesn’t often find much off the bridle and made little show in a competitive handicap at Punchestown, but jumps for fun and is likely to relish this small field!
The frustrating Christmas River, beaten by Gotaknockonthehead at Killarney, will hardly find a better opportunity than that afforded her in the Comeragh Maiden Hurdle.
Bob What, a moderate sixth behind Look Between Us at Killarney, is a hopeful choice in the Slievenamon Beginners ’Chase.
