Some intriguing early buckles in Derby and Oaks
THE 87th National Coursing Meeting gets underway at Powerstown Park next week, as the famous Clonmel hill and nimble footed hares will combine to dent some lofty reputations and fulfill the hopes and dreams of owners, trainers and punters as the best in the land go to battle in the hope of having their names etched into the sports elusive roll of honour.
THE DERBY
The Derby draw has thrown up some intriguing pairings with Uptown Abu and the much hyped Solid Monk been the stand out buckle.
Both of Patsy Byrne’s qualifiers face difficult opening assignments with Path of Peace pitted against the favourite Offshore Eoin and Prime Example taking on Wise Call. Swanky Matt looks well housed in the second quarter and he may well battle it out for a semifinal berth on Wednesday morning, possibly against Hopes and Dreams. The third quarter looks the hardest to predict with Uptown Abu getting a tentative vote of confidence. Blueview Sam and Ashmore Master look hard to oppose in the final quarter.
THE OAKS
The opening course of the Oaks looks a hard one to call with Fiery Sunset getting the vote to progress. Gaisce Mor and Blazing Dilemma should be another closely fought affair, while Ballyduff qualifier Misty Herris gets the nod over Cushie Victoria.
Silent Carol should have too much for Spring Hawk, while a potential second round tie between Barrack Bimbo and Fives Treasure (who both top the market) looks a real mouth watering prospect. Kennel companions Awe and Wonder and Naughty lady face off in round one, where even the trainer found it hard to call it.
Gallant Success, Trionas Joy and Careful Holly should all win there opening courses in the third quarter, while the final quarter is extremely competitive with the likes of Alainn, Ravel Glory and Holy Lady ready for a fierce scrap for the last semi-final slot.
CHAMPION STAKES WHITESTONE Rai has been handed a tough opening buckle as he will go to slips with Caesar Music. Kyle King and High and Mighty could go either way, while Dresden Call should have too much for Pay Me to progress to the semi-final where he will take on the winner of the course between Righttogowrong and Droopys Babs.
CHAMPION BITCH STAKE ELAINE Guiney’s Class Attraction returns to defend her crown and she takes on Denis O’driscoll’s Cheryl in the opening round. Beautiful Chrissy has been in terrific form again this season and she looks a real danger to the rest.
Southside Tess will need to show no ill effects of the injury she picked up at Clonakilty as she takes on the bang in form Portinard Nine. Why Tanyard Ash and Party Flamingo is the remaining clash. If Beautiful Chrissy can get her action together leaving slips she may well be the one to collect here.