Scott ace to trump Irish hand
DEVON trainer Jeremy Scott has an Ace up his sleeve for the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle.
GOLDEN ACE (4.50) had some smart bumper form last season, including when runner-up behind Dysart Enos in the Grade 2 at Aintree’s Grand National meeting.
She’s taken to hurdling like a natural this term. The way she jumped when beating useful Lucky Place at Taunton over 2m3f was most impressive.
The drop down to 2m was not a problem when returned to the same West Country track last month and she bolted up without hardly breaking sweat.
Her high cruising speed and slick jumping give her the tools to run very well in this Grade 2 contest for Scott (above).
Irish raiders Brighterdaysahead and Jade De Grugy arrive with tall reputations but they are going to have to live up to those if they are to stop Golden Ace. Have 2pts each-way at 14-1.
SAINT FELICIEN
(4.10) is a young chaser going places.
Gordon Elliot’s novice has been taking on smart prospects in beginners’ chases in Ireland and he could be a class apart in the Trustatrader Plate.
He got off the mark with a smooth defeat of three Willie Mullins runners at Gowran Park having progressed nicely with placed efforts earlier in the season. Testing ground holds no fears for Jack Kennedy’s mount and he’s less exposed than most of his rivals.
He’s got a smart pedigree and looks capable of fulfilling his potential in this competitive handicap. Have 1pt each-way at 9-1.
Most bookies are paying out on five places but several are stretching
to six.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
(5.30) has thrived since going up in distance beyond 3m on testing ground.
He put in an awesome display of galloping when slicing through the Punchestown mud to win the Listed Grand National Trial last month.
The cheekpieces he’s been wearing for his recent starts have clearly made a difference and there’s no telling how far this strong stayer can progress now things have clicked into place.
It pays to have a decent jockey in this race restricted to amateur riders and Gordon Elliott has booked experienced Barry O’Neill.
With ground conditions in his favour, have 1 pt each-way at 14-1. Several bookies are going six places.