Septet seek Moriarty spoils

A high-class field of seven take their chance in the Dr PJ Moriarty Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Sunday.

In what is arguably the best novice chase run in Ireland this season, three previous Grade One winners are in the line-up in addition to Willie Mullins’ progressive J’y Vole and the well-regarded Big Zeb.

Liam Burke’s Thyne Again won at the highest level only two weeks ago when he strolled to a 15-length victory in the Irish Arkle.

“He came out of his last race very well and though we are stepping up in trip, I don’t think that will be a problem,” said Burke.

“He’s only seven and he’s lightly raced but he had to miss last season.

“I don’t think the trip should bother him. He won over two-mile-six over hurdles and while that wouldn’t have been a great race, it shouldn’t be a problem.

“I always thought he was a stayer but it hasn’t worked out that way.

“It looks a cracking race but Willie’s mare (J’y Vole) is getting all the allowances.

“She has been winning uncontested up to now so I wouldn’t know how good she would be.

“She won’t get it all her own way on Sunday though.”

Another reason why J’y Vole will not be getting things all her own way is Edward O’Grady’s Sky’s The Limit.

The grey was one of the most striking winners at the Cheltenham Festival in 2006 when he won the Coral Cup as a five-year-old.

Things did not quite go according to plan last term but he returned with a vengeance this season, with two Grade one wins already in the bag.

“He’s a good jumper and I suppose the fact that he didn’t win over fences last year has helped him this season,” said his jockey Andrew McNamara.

“But he’s done nothing wrong this year and I’d be hoping that conditions and trip should suit on Sunday.

“He won over two miles last time but I think he is a middle-distance horse - he’s obviously got plenty of class.”

The other Grade One winner over fences is Jim Dreaper’s Notre Pere, who tipped up at Leopardstown last time out.

Abbeybraney and Oulart complete the septet.

Dr PJ Moriarty Novice Chase

William Hill Bet: 13-8 J’y Vole, 3-1 Thyne Again, 10-3 Sky’s The Limit, 15-2 Notre Pere, 10-1 Big Zeb, 20-1 Abbeybraney, 40-1 Oulart.