Eyre Apparent has plenty going for him
The evidence thus far is that good ground is essential for the selection, so hopefully the course will not be hit by too much rain.
At Killarney ten days ago, Eyre Apparent indicated his turn would arrive sooner rather than later when producing a decent enough effort.
Always on the pace, he was taken to the front by Cooper approaching the home turn. Heading to the last the six-year-old had everything beaten, bar the well-backed favourite Alderwood.
There wasn’t much between the pair rising to the flight, but then Eyre Apparent stumbled badly at the back of the obstacle and his chance was gone.
This represents a very suitable opportunity and, with Cooper riding out of his skin, Hughes’ charge has plenty going for him.
Dual bumper winner Presenting Nama, who made a solid start over jumps when third to Ross Na Righ and Zagman at Killarney, looks the biggest worry.
Luck Pennie is interesting in the Clonacody Maiden Hurdle, considering he is Ruby Walsh’s only ride of the evening. Lightly raced, Luck Pennie too was in action at Killarney, finishing a promising fourth behind well-backed Scottish Boogie.
Preference, however, is for Knockgraffon Lad, who showed improved form when three parts of a length runner-up behind the useful Kalann at Cork.
The opening Irish Stallion Farms’ EBF Fillies Maiden is tricky, with the nod falling on Dermot Weld’s once-raced Tafjeer.
This daughter of Elusive Quality hinted at better to come when fifth of 15 behind shock winner, Negotiate, at Gowran Park and is entitled to come on for the experience.
