Johann can overcome long absence
Trained in Co Meath by Noel Meade, it is a long way from his base to this track and the fact the five-year-old is his only runner is, hopefully, significant. The selection hasn’t been since last year’s Punchestown festival, when making a very promising debut.
He finished fourth of 25 behind stable companion, Texas Jack, in a contest which has been working out reasonably well.
Texas Jack and the second then, Maller Tree, have developed into useful hurdlers, while the fifth horse, The Westener Boy, has since taken a Fairyhouse bumper by a wide margin.
Obviously, the fact Johannisberger has been on the missing list since is a worry, but on an evening which offers few opportunities he is put forward as the best wager on the card.
Willie Mullins’ Supreme Carolina is a hopeful choice in the Follow Cork On Facebook Mares’ Maiden Hurdle.
A useful sort in bumpers, the five-year-old has a break of 148 days to overcome, but this is a weak contest and she gets the nod.
Ruby Walsh rides Supreme Carolina and also has prospects with the modest Dara Tango in the Friday Evening Racing Maiden Hurdle.
Tony Martin’s charge was mildly unlucky here last time when third to Tabhachtach and Mystic Desir and that form might be good enough to see him get through an ordinary heat.
Robert Tyner’s One In A Milan may be capable of shrugging off top weight in the Fathers’ Day June 17th Novice Handicap Hurdle. He is up 3lbs, but down in grade, having run a cracker when a close third to Paddy Pub and Castle Wings at Naas in late February.
