Catch Me set to complete a four-timer
Edward O’Grady’s charge has enjoyed a fine season and has a lot going for him here. Firstly, he has 7lbs in hand of principal rival, Aitmatov, and the two miles and five furlongs trip looks ideal.
He beat Whatuthink on this track and Brave Inca at Fairyhouse, both times over two and a half, before stepping up to three at Leopardstown at Christmas.
Catch Me scrambled to a neck success over Whatuthink then, after appearing set for a comfortable victory on the approach to the final flight.
Aitmatov, at his best, is quite capable of putting it up to the selection, but Catch Me is at the peak of his powers right now and has to be the choice.
Andrew McNamara partners Catch Me and he and O’Grady are also fancied to take the 30-runner Mirror Group Maiden Hurdle with once-raced Solstice Knight.
This full-brother to Back In Front made an excellent start at Leopardstown when a creditable fifth behind Corskeagh Royale.
The nap vote falls on Dessie Hughes’ Siegemaster in the Grade 2 three mile Ten Up Novice Chase.
He stays well and is down his class, having taken third behind Casey Jones and Trafford Lad in a Grade 1 at Leopardstown.
Those who think Philip Fenton’s Dunguib has a real life in the forthcoming Cheltenham Bumper will have more than one eye focused on Willie Mullins’ The Biscuit Club in the concluding Bumper.
He had future winner written all over him when powering through late to fill second to Dunguib at Punchestown back in November.
