Progressive Beau Michael looks set to defy top weight
One of the best juveniles in the country last season, the most recent evidence strongly suggests he has improved again.
At Limerick last month, Beau Michael, who loves to front-run, made all to easily beat Silverhand (rec. 6lbs) by eight lengths.
Adrian McGuinness’ charge jumped great and stayed on in fine style, so it is reasonable to assume he will ask serious questions of his rivals a long way from home.
Dessie Hughes’ Rare Bob will take a lot of beating in the Irish Stallion Farms’ EBF Beginners Chase, if his first venture over fences is a reliable guide.
The selection wouldn’t be anywhere near as good over hurdles as Made In Taipan, and would be rated below Jayo and Jaamid as well, but this may well be his true calling.
Rare Bob made a spectacular start at Punchestown when actually beating the ultra-smart Trafford Lad by a short head, only to lose the race in the stewards’ room.
He jumped quite beautifully and, hopefully, will now confirm the excellent impression created then.
Dual bumper winner Taravada can take the Racing Again At Naas 4th January Hurdle. He hasn’t been seen since enjoying a lucky success in a maiden hurdle at Leopardstown last Christmas, Peplum was clear when falling at the last, but remains a decent prospect.
Navan tomorrow houses a superb programme, with Noel Meade and Paul Carberry looking the team to very much have on one’s side.
The potentially high-class Pandorama, winner of a point and two bumpers, has reportedly schooled really well and has to get the vote in the 30-runner INH Stallion Owners’ EBF Maiden Hurdle.
Meade’s Fisher Bridge, who scored in smooth style on two occasions at Punchestown, can land the For Auction Novice Hurdle.
Aitmatov is another Meade possibility in a fiercely competitive looking Philips Electronics Lismullen Hurdle. Tough and resolute, he won his first three races last season and should go close.
Meade’s Aran Concerto can overcome an absence of 606 days in the Irish Stallion Farms’ EBF Beginners Chase. Dogged by injury, his trainer is on record as saying he could be the best he has ever trained.
Aran Concerto has done plenty of schooling and plenty of work and this is not the most demanding return to the game.
Waterloo Chateau, down in class, having finished fifth behind Fisher Bridge at Punchestown, a contest which has been working out particularly well, can win the Martinstown Opportunity Maiden Hurdle at Limerick tomorrow.
