Gunfire value despite Elliott power

LEADING trainer at the track Gordon Elliott is doubly represented at Downpatrick in the featured handicap chase with Cecil Corbett and Goodthymemilan — the latter the mount of Davy Russell and likely favourite.

Fenlon’s Hill won at the Maze last time with Bosco Di Alco in arrears.

Henry de Bromhead has his team in top form with Burndown engaged — Rachael Blackmore booked — while BC’s Pride finished runner-up at the course last month and French import Gunfire Reef was third at the track on his debut for Mags Mullins.

The last named — Mags’ son Danny aboard — on his handicap debut could supply the value bet each way.

Champion trainer Willie Mullins provides the likely favourite in the opening mares maiden hurdle with Irish Lass — winner of a Tramore bumper on her debut.

Agusta Gold also won her bumper at Tramore on heavy ground before disappointing first time over hurdles when odds on favourite.

Sunrise Lady can prove the danger to the Mullins favourite.

Course winners Alterno, Whatsinthecorner and Show And Go make most appeal in the handicap hurdle, with the last named — partnered by champion jockey Russell — preferred.

The ‘Shark’ Hanlon-trained Redwood Boy sprang a 33-1 shock on his penultimate effort, however Lady Of The Sea and Getaway Rose are the preferred duo in the Coors Hurdle, with the latter capable of supplying Mags and Danny Mullins with a double.

An’ball gets the vote in the beginners chase with Jefferson Davies, Cote Tete and Rossmore’s Pride supplying the dangers.

Claiming jockey Adam Short is enjoying a successful run at the moment and Fairymount Boy can add to the tally in the Down Festival Chase.

The ultra-consistent Swift is overdue a win and is the danger along with Peacock’s Secret.

Global Jackpot stands out in the concluding bumper, restricted to lady riders.

Great record: Gordon Elliott