Pistol the pick
That his efforts over fences thus far are clearly below what main rivals, Rathgar Beau and Beachcomber Bay, have achieved is beyond dispute. But the selection gets a hefty weight allowance from both and if producing some of his useful juvenile hurdle efforts would go very close.
Heezapistol, like most of his stable companions, has struggled through the campaign, but did hint there was better to come at Naas nineteen days ago.
He eventually finished a well beaten sixth behind Turn Two, but less than the full story is contained in the bare facts.
The five-year-old was bang in contention between the final two fences, in a contest which has been working out quite well. Glens Music (third) and Kadoun (fifth) have gone on to score in the meantime.
Rathgar Beau has the best form, having chased home Schwartzhalle at Navan and taking third to Bust Out in the Grade One Arkle Cup at Leopardstown. He doesn’t, however, always find a lot off the bridle!
Beachcomber Bay won in a canter at Gowran Park and, clearly on the upgrade, has to be respected.
The opening Ballynonty Novice Hurdle brings together eight previous winners over flights and promises a decent contest.
The vote goes go Glenhaven Nugget, who was, admittedly, a bit disappointing at Cork and Navan on his latest appearances.
But those efforts came at a time when Edward O’Grady’s horses were out of sorts and he is best judged on his seasonal debut success on this track back in October when beating one of his principal rivals now, Woodys Deep Ocean (levels), by three parts of a length.
Tarqogan Thyne, winner of a maiden hurdle at Down Royal and sixth to Come In Moscow on her first pop over fences on this track, gets the nod to take the Tattersalls Ireland Mares Beginners Chase.
