Shorter trip will suit Head of the Posse
John Kiely’s lightly-raced five-year-old won a bumper at Tipperary, as a prelude to making his debut over flights at Punchestown last month.
That Punchestown contest was over two miles, six furlongs and the selection travelled like a sure-fire winner for most of the journey.
Head Of The Posse didn’t find as much in the closing stages as he threatened to do, however, and was eventually outstayed by Prince Rudi, going under by a length and three parts.
Whether it was a case of not quite lasting out the trip, or simply failing to find a whole lot off the bridle, isn’t too clear right now.
What we do know, though, is that it was eight lengths back to the third and Kiely’s charge now drops down two furlongs in trip.
For the moment, and taking today’s opposition into account, he is entitled to the benefit of the doubt.
David Casey partners Head Of The Posse and also has good prospects aboard Charlie Swan’s Glenstal Abbey in the first division of the Fairyhouse Membership 2009 Maiden Hurdle.
Another who hasn’t done much racing, the son of Montjeu may come on plenty for finishing fifth behind the impressive Donnas Palm on his reappearance at Naas.
The second section of the same contest can fall to Tom Taaffe’s Smoking Aces, who also ran in that Naas race.
He took a creditable third, doing all his best work at the end and giving the impression there would be plenty more to come.
The relatively experienced Knocknagow Leader could enjoy a turn in the 20% Ticket Discount On Line Beginners Chase.
Beaten a head by Jupiter Hollow (rec. 23lbs) in a handicap at Down Royal, Knocknagow Leader can grasp this opportunity.
