Today's Tips: Alphonsus can put experience to good use in Dundalk
John Oxx’s colt finished sixth behind Tirmizi on his debut, at Leopardstown, before finishing fourth behind Aspen Mountain on his all-weather debut at this track, last month. Drawn widest of all on the latter occasion, he was sent forward early to take a prominent position, and mounted a strong challenge shortly after turning for home. He was unable to raise his effort in the closing stages, but it was a decent effort, and the form of the race looks decent. The winner is quite promising, and third-placed Red Rannagh went on to score next time.
Although, once again, he hasn’t been done too many favours by the draw, his experience will stand to him, and he should hard to beat.
Twin Falls has obvious claims but has become frustrating to follow, and thus market support for Roman Impero or newcomer Name For The Blame would be significant.
Crazy Tornado can take the first division for Michael Halford. A son of Big Bad Bob, he made his debut here in October and, after a slow start, failed to land a telling blow. However, there were definite signs of ability to match the obvious greenness. He also found some trouble in running in the closing stages, and ran better than his finishing position might suggest.
With a hood applied for the first time and the benefit of that debut experience, he should be a different proposition this time. From a good draw, he can take a prominent early and land the spoils at the expense of In Her Stride and newcomer A Shin Impala.
Great Wide Open can take the opening race for Charles O’Brien. The Starspangledbanner gelding reached a mark of 82 on turf and, in three runs at this track, has also shown plenty of promise.
This is a more manageable assignment than the one he most recently contested and, with a stronger pace likely, he can be produced late to earn an overdue return to winning ways.
Heavy Weight should also give his supporters a good run for their money. A winner over seven furlongs in October, he ran well in defeat over longer trips on his next two outings. However, the drop back to a mile should prove more suitable, and he can reach the frame.
