MIDNIGHT READY TO END HIS POOR RUN

PETER O’HEHIR ALTHOUGH winless in seven starts over fences, Midnight Run might put his experience to good use in the Grade 2 Oak Lodge Landscapes Novice Chase in Punchestown today.

The 141-rated, Joseph O’brien (above) trained gelding, winner of a bumper and hurdle, has been a bit frustrating during his chasing career but his overall form looks solid and, with regular partner Bryan Cooper again in the saddle, he might prove too strong for the ‘Shark’ Hanlon-trained Hallowed Star.

Midnight Run’s place form over fences includes two clashes with Barry Connell’s Drinmore candidate Enniskerry – in a beginners chase in Galway and the Grade 3 Kilbegnet at Roscommon.

Last time, the Gigginstown-owned eight-year-old finished a creditable third behind the smart Adamantly Chosen and Grade 3 scorer Visionarian in the Grade 3 Buck House at this venue.

Midnight Run is rated 2lb superior to Gordon Elliott’s (inset) Grand Paradis, wellbeaten on his seasonal debut behind El Barra in Cork, and should have his measure.

The biggest threat is likely to be Hallowed Star, a Galway specialist who bolted-up when making all to slam Caesar Rock by 19 lengths around

Ballybrit, on his second start over fences.

The mount of Danny Mullins, Hallowed Star is a big danger. But Midnight Run’s experience might give him the edge.