The Game Changer poised to complete hat-trick
Trained until his retirement in February by Charlie Swan and now with Gordon Elliott, the six-year-old was largely an under-achiever over hurdles, despite performing creditably in competitive handicaps, including a solid third in Aintree in April.
But the switch to fences and the addition of a tongue-tie has been a major success. He made all and bolted-up on his fencing bow in Punchestown, slamming Daneking by 13 lengths.
And he followed-up by landing a novice in Roscommon, beating the highly-regarded Rock The World and Upazo, who is in the field again today.
This time, The Game Changer faces solid, experienced rivals, notably Darwins Fox and Arnaud. But, receiving weight, he should be difficult to beat.
Bryan Cooper might also strike for Gigginstown on Is Love Alive in the beginners chase, Colm Murphy’s charge having fallen, when in front, in the race won by Shadow Catcher in Limerick.
The Michael Halford-trained Lehbab was very green on his recent debut in Ballinrobe, but came home well to fill second spot behind Wider World.
With improvement expected, Shane Foley’s mount might be capable of overcoming 80-rated Lord Carleton in the one-mile Irish Stallion Farms Maiden.
And David Wachman’s Nova, third to Mufrad on his debut at Down Royal, is worth noting in the Anglo Printers Maiden.
