Punchestown to hold early inspection

PUNCHESTOWN has announced an 8am precautionary inspection ahead of today’s meeting.

Officials at the track will assess conditions due to the threat of frost.

The course is currently raceable, with the ground described as ‘soft to heavy on all tracks’.

Punchestown’s big draw is the mighty Douvan, who is due to line up in the Boyle Sports Tied Cottage Chase.

Meanwhile, Shattered Love cashed in on the late fall of Asthuria to claim Grade Three glory at Fairyhouse yesterday.

The two horses were poised to engage in a fascinating duel along the run-in, but the Willie Mullins-trained Asthuria fell at the final flight of the Coolmore Soldier Of Fortune Mares Novice Hurdle.

Shattered Love (9-4 favourite) was left out on her own as Gordon Elliott’s mare struck by 13 lengths under Jack Kennedy.

Forge Meadow was second, with Miss Eyecatcher a nevernearer third.

Elliott said: ‘We were fortunate that Willie’s horse fell at the last. We had a bit of luck on our side but we know she stays. A step up in trip would be no bother to her.

‘I’ll have to talk to Eddie and Michael (O’Leary, of Gigginstown House Stud) to decide where she goes next.

‘The mares’ novice race at Cheltenham could be a bit short for her.’