PERTEMPS NETWORK HURDLE

2.10: LISTED — 2 MILES 7 FURLONGS

The pertemps qualifier at leopardstown over Christmas may hold the key to this race because it featured a number of eye-catching performances, not least the closing efforts of The Storyteller and last year’s winner SIRE DU BERLAIS.

The former, already a winner over fences at the Festival, was given a beautiful ride from Davy russell to sneak into the final qualifying spot from an unpromising position turning for home.

Sire Du Berlais found plenty of trouble in running in this event 12 months ago, yet still possessed the quality to edge out course specialist Tobefair with a little in hand and land a sizeable gamble.

Although Sire Du Berlais failed to book his spot for a repeat bid at leopardstown, he did well to finish as close to the winner as he did, given his position with two hurdles to jump, and a similar finishing effort at Warwick in January ensured his place in today’s field.

Trainer Gordon elliott employed the first-time cheek pieces 12 months ago and a switch to the blinkers could be the catalyst for his eight-year-old to produce another huge display.

Others to bear in mind include Tout est permis (fourth at leopardstown), who represents the jockey-trainer combination that won the leinster National last Sunday. Skandiburg and rapper look two of the home contingent to consider, with their effectiveness on the track assured, while the gamble of the race, relegate, is undeniably well treated if her hurdling holds up.