Today's Irish raiders
They may struggle, however, to concede 7lbs to Nicky Henderson's Amaretto Rose, so impressive in her two races over flights.
2.35 Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase, 2 miles
ONLY two from Ireland, Gemini Lucy and Vintage Treaure, and neither is really fancied. The front-running Fair Along, mud-loving My Way De Solzen and the progressive Don’t Push It give the English a powerful hand.
3.15 Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle, 2 miles 1/2 furlong
DESPITE the defections of Macs Joy, Harchibald and Jazz Messenger, the Irish have every reason to be optimistic. Last year's winner, Brave Inca, the dual champion, Hardy Eustace, and live outsiders in Sublimity and Asian Maze mean we still have a strong hand. The up-and-coming Philip Hobbs-trained grey, Detroit City, is the one most likely to spoil the party.
4.00 William Hill Trophy Handicap Chase, 3 miles 1/2f
No Irish trained runner here. Ferdy Murphy’s consistent New Alco should go well while the lightly-raced Distant Thunder, in the care of Gold Cup winning trainer Noel Chance and the mount of Andrew McNamara, could pop up at a reasonable price.
4.40 Sporting Index Cross Country Handicap Chase, 3 miles 7 furlongs
MUCH attention will focus on Enda Bolger's great veteran Spot Thedifference, who is now a 14-year-old. He is a specialist in this type of cross-country event, but faces an uphill struggle off top weight. Bolger also saddles likely favourite, Heads Onthe Ground, and other live Irish prospects are Star Performance and Never Compromise.
5.20 Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle, 2 miles ½ furlong
ONE of the hardest races of the meeting to solve. Ireland is represented by Madroos and Belord. Pouvoir, regarded by trainer Alan King as well handicapped, should go well as should Saturday’s Sandown winner Gaspara.
