Abarta can finally get off the mark

THE concluding maiden hurdle at Ballinrobe this evening provides an opportunity for Val O’Brien’s Abarta to finally get off the mark under rules.

The five-year-old did little of note in bumpers but he’s shown improved form since being sent over hurdles and his consistency should be rewarded here.

On his most recent outing he finished a highly creditable third behind Carlingford Lough, who gave the form some substance when winning a handicap hurdle at the Galway Festival.