Boy can go one better
The four-year-old performed well enough in three bumpers, but jumping was always going to be his game and he was a strong order morning-prices on his debut over flights at Fairyhouse a week ago.
Ah Ya Boy Ya eventually went off favourite and appeared to be holding all the aces heading to the second last flight.
In the end, however, he was outbattled by Strath Gallant, going under by a neck. Christy Roche’s gelding jumped and travelled nicely through that contest and this now looks a very suitable opportunity.
Narquois, who has proved a bit disappointing and has a long absence to overcome, is the choice in the Event Centre Maiden Hurdle. He was last seen on this track back in November, producing his best effort thus far when third to Shuil Oisin and subsequent Galway Hurdle hero, Farmer Brown.
The selection is bound to be primed for this, coming from the in-form Noel Meade yard, and it does look a weak race.
Meade can also supply the answer to the first division of the Panoramic Restaurant Maiden Hurdle with Gem Daly, who made a winning debut when landing a bumper at Leopardstown at Christmas.
Venalmar, so impressive when taking a Gowran Park bumper by eight lengths in March, would rate a big danger should the market speak in his favour.
Mouse Morris’ charges, however, often need at least one run before hitting top gear.
The second section of the same contest can go to Dusty Sheehy’s ex-pointer, Trafford Lad. He scrambled to victory in a Cork bumper nine days ago, with Sheehy indicating he expected plenty of improvement to be forthcoming.
