IRISH ANGLE

NAP OF THE DAY

It’s a moderate days racing at Fairyhouse today but with rain on the horizon it might pay to follow the mud- loving WEST ERN ZARA (4.00) in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. She coped well with the conditions when third at Limerick over Christmas and “would gallop until she’d die” according to trainer Paul Nolan. The step up to this trip should suit and Nolan has been among the winners recently too.

EACH-WAY THIEF

Kei th Donoghue is pound for pound one of the most talented jockeys in Ireland and on his local track he has an each-way chance in a wide open 3m1f Handicap Chase. SHES SOME DOLL (1.05) fell on her handicap chase debut over Christmas but had shown consistently useful beginners’ chase form. Gavin Cromwell’s horses are running well and she looks to have a life in a difficult race to assess.

ONE TO WATCH

BACARDYS (12.00) has been a remarkable horse for Willie Mullins. He ran in his first chase five years ago but still remains a maiden after six attempts. He’s a dual Grade 1 winning hurdler and has been placed twice at the Cheltenham Festival and has also won at Aintree. He’s now an 11-yearold but Mullins has a great record with these old timers and he should finally open his account over fences in today’s opener. The form of his second to Bob Olinger in the autumn is very strong.

ONE TO SWERVE

Wilie Mullin s saddles four in the feature Solerina Mares Hurdle — a race he’s won five times in the last decade. Brandy Love (1.40) is the choice of Paul Townend but lacks the experience of some her rivals. An impressive maiden hurdle winner last time out, but looks a risky bet in a deep contest.