McManus’ colours should figure prominently at Downpatrick

LEADING owner JP McManus’ colours can figure prominently at Downpatrick’s Bank Holiday meeting today.

The owner’s William Du Berlais, a winner over fences at this fixture last year, reverts to hurdles in the feature which remembers Dr Ernie Logan — a long time leading figure in local equestrian circles.

McManus (below) has also Sonowyouknow engaged after finishing third at the venue last time. Maple Lawn, a course winner on her penultimate start along with four-time winner The Jam Man, trained by Armagh handler Ronan McNally, warrant consideration.

The famous McManus green and gold colours can claim the opener on Paris Texas following consistent placed efforts in better company. Champion trainer Willie Mullins has Jonnigraig engaged but Melly And Me and Silver Star can present bigger threats.

Lleyton, Maighnealta and Shipwreck form the short list in the Ulster Carpets Hurdle while Finish In Style, trained by Niall Madden, is notable returning to the course proper after outings in points.

The Mouse Morris-trained Wigs On The Green will appreciate the extra distance in the maiden while more rain to ease the ground would be in his favour with Barry Geraghty taking the mount on the McManus runner.

Present In Court, a winner and runner-up on his last two efforts at the track, looks the likely favourite while Biddy The Boss and Little Nugget and the locally trained Caerleon Kate goes well at this track but Present In Court could gain a repeat course victory for Gordon Elliott and Davy Russell.

Caltex, runner-up at Galway, can further enhance trainer Gordon Elliott’s record at the course with former Ulster pointer Celebrity Status having place prospects in the novice chase.

JP McManus is doubly represented in the handicap chase with Gentleman Duke and My Home Town. The former showed a possible return to form when third at Sligo for trainer Arthur Moore. The Elliott-trained, Cubomania and Jack Slade look the pair to beat.

Willie Mullins can get on the scoresheet in the bumper with Royal Rendezvous while the trainer’s sister-in-law, Mags Mullins, could supply the danger with newcomer Hang In There while Gordon Elliott, who has an excellent strike in the finale at the track, has claims with Who shot th es herr if. DOWNPATRICK SELECTIONS: 2.45: Paris Texas. 3.20: Lleyton. 3.55: William Du Berlais. 4.30: Present In Court. 5.05: Caltex: 5.40: Gentleman Duke. 6.10 Royal Rendezvous