Good chance for Diamond to sparkle
John McConnell’s colt is clearly no star, but a model of consistency and well capable of landing a moderate contest such as this.
His latest appearance came at Cork 19 days ago, beaten two lengths into second by David Wachman’s well-regarded newcomer, Rambling Rake.
The selection is tough and honest, has a good draw in four and, with in-form Shane Foley aboard, is the one to beat.
Ger Lyons, who has his horses in good shape, can land the Patrick Tallan And Co Solicitors’ Maiden with El Gran Torino.
He seemed to find ten furlongs all too short at the Curragh last time, when seventh of 19 behind Terminal Velocity.
Moving up to a mile and a half could be the key to him and El Gran Torino may show more resolution than the enigmatic Enchanted Forest, who appeared to produce improved form when third to Saddler’s Rock and Red Calima at Tipperary.
Salute Him, fifth under top weight to Banksters Bonus in the Ulster Derby at Down Royal, is much favoured by the conditions of the Fast Shipping Ireland Race for amateur riders.
He is hard enough to catch right, however, and preference is for Fantasy King, even if he is 11lbs wrong with Salute Him.
Fantasy King, winner of a Punchestown bumper and on the flat at Leopardstown, was returning from a long break when a creditable length and three parts runner-up behind Natural High at Limerick last month.
At Wexford Jessica Harrington’s Law Rebel, beaten half a length by Charlie Swan’s Rourke’s Cross at Limerick, can go one better in the Bumper.
