BERLAIS EYES PRIZE IN PIPE

THE Gordon Elliott, above, trained Sire Du Berlais is a speculative nap selection for the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle today.

The J P Mcmanus-owned French-bred is a lightly-raced six-year-old, a winner over hurdles at Compiegne in France. And he has raced only three times since joining Elliott’s team, including a respectable third to stable-companion and Champion hurdle third Mick Jazz at Punchestown on his Irish debut.

In his only outing this season, he was a strong-finishing second to Out Of The Loop at Fairyhouse three weeks ago, which suggested there was plenty more to come. And, despite joint top-weight, he could still be well-handicapped.

Five Irish challengers will tackle the might of Apple’s Shakira and Redicean in the JCB Triumph Hurdle which opens the card.

Willie Mullins is responsible for four, a challenge spear-headed by Mr Adjudicator, winner of the Grade 1 Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown last month.

Stormy Ireland, hugely impressive, against weak opposition at Fairyhouse in December, and Gowran scorer Saldier are impossible to assess but potentially very smart.

But I suggest each-way support of Elliott’s runner Farclas, finished second to Espoir D’allen and Mr Adjudicator respectively on his two starts for his new trainer.

A strong gallop should bring his stamina into play. And I expect him to reverse Leopardstown form with Mr Adjudicator and run a very big race.

New kid on the block Burning Ambition leads the Irish challenge in the Foxhunters and has solid claims against last year’s runner-up Wonderful Charm.

The Irish raiders might struggle to cope with Nicky Henderson’s Santini in the Albert Bartlett.

And the unexposed Willie Mullins-trained Sandsend appeals, each-way, in the County Hurdle.