Michael can be Top Man
When one feels the need to nap a horse, Top Man Michael, in a contest in which none of the 16 contestants have previously jumped a hurdle in public then that really is scraping the bottom of the barrel.
But such is the case in the Railway Bar Maiden Hurdle, the first race for three-year-olds this season.
There is, however, good reason for believing Top Man Michael more than capable of landing this, not least the fact his trainer, Noel Meade, says he jumps really well.
On top of that he was very impressive when cruising to victory in a 12 furlongs handicap at Galway on Sunday, so has to get the vote.
Pat Kelly’s Markey Cee looks the right one in the Abbey Hotel Roscommon Handicap Chase, having shown improved form at Galway five day ago.
He finished eight lengths second behind Murchu in a beginners chase and goes up by 10lbs in the future.
The horses one can fancy in the gaaroscommon.ie Maiden Hurdle all have something to prove, with a hopeful nod falling on Noel Meade’s Johannnisberger.
When he was three parts of a length runner-up behind Back To Balloo at Down Royal in May his turn looked sure to come sooner rather than later.
Johannisberger duly went off a warm order next time at Sligo, but finished a most disappointing seventh to Sizing Italy.
He was initially found to be lame after the contest, but subsequently sound and his travels in the market will be especially important.
