Hidden Universe can open account
Only fourth to Fosters Cross 12 months ago, when probably in need of the run, the Dermot Weld-trained five-year-old sets a decent standard in the two-mile test and should prove very tough to beat.
Winner of three bumpers, at Leopardstown, Limerick and Punchestown (the Grade 1 Paddy Power Champion Flat Race) as a four-year-old, Hidden Universe has yet to fulfil his potential over hurdles, having triumphed on his hurdling bow at Leopardstown last Christmas.
Fourth to Oscars Well in the Deloitte at Leopardstown in February, he finished down the field in the Supreme Novices at Cheltenham, (behind Al Ferof) and, last time, faded after a mistake to fill 17th spot behind Moon Dice in the Guinness Galway Hurdle.
Highly-regarded in Rosewell House, the Linamix gelding should be capable of opening his account on the level here, which would qualify him for a handicap mark. He’s preferred to Donatis Comet and Louisville Lip.
Hidden Universe might spark a double for Weld and stable jockey Pat Smullen, who will also be associated with the once-raced daughter of Teofilo, Voleuse De Coeurs, in the one-mile maiden for two-year-old fillies.
Lady O’Reilly’s filly shaped like a certain future winner when a staying third to the smart Akeed Wafi on her recent debut Gowran Park.
That looked a strong end-of-season contest at the time, although the form has already been let down by runner-up Rigoletta in Dundalk.
But, with that experience under her belt and helped by significantly softer ground today, Voleuse De Coeurs makes plenty of appeal, despite the presence of 92-rated Redoutable (also owned by Lady O’Reilly) and some interesting debutantes.
The two-year-old colts’ maiden, won five times in the last ten years by Aidan O’Brien, looks a particularly tough puzzle, with Ballydoyle set to be represented by three newcomers. The market should prove the best guide.
