Hennessy seeks Rubi answers
Robbie Hennessy’s stable star was defending his crown in the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase but finished a distant last of three behind Flemenstar and Sir Des Champs.
Hennessy is keen to find out whether his charge simply needed the run or if there was something amiss on the day.
“He seems OK, but he was making a bit of a noise when he was blowing after the race,” said Hennessy.
“He was running a nice race until the third last and Barry (Geraghty) said he just cut out very quickly after that. It was obviously a very hot race and the winner looks very special.
“Our horse could have just got very tired on his first run since April, but the vet is coming in the morning and we’re going to scope him while he is galloping and see if anything comes to light.”
Meanwhile, Enda Bolger is hoping Arabella Boy can emulate the exploits of his past cross-country stars when the seven-year-old tackles Cheltenham’s unique course for the first time today.
Bolger’s two most prolific exponents, Spot Thedifference and Garde Champetre, enjoyed considerable success at this discipline.
Now Arabella Boy gets his chance to show his prowess in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase – providing the course passes an 8am inspection.
He lines-up on the back of a victory over Punchestown’s cross-country course at the main expense of Boston’s Angel and Shakervilz who are also among a 12-strong field.
“I’m expecting a good run. It’s his first time around the course. He’s done well at Punchestown, so I’m hoping the fences shouldn’t be a problem to him,” said the Co Limerick handler.
“There’s one or two in there that have chances – Outlaw Pete and obviously Uncle Junior, but I’m very happy with my fella.”
The Willie Mullins-trained Uncle Junior was successful over this course and distance last month.
Outlaw Pete was third that day and his trainer John Halley hopes his charge can put another good display.
“We just hope he can compete well and that he runs well,” said the Co Tipperary handler.
“We haven’t done much with him since the last day. He’s just been ticking over.”
