Kapard to deliver for De Bromhead
Kapard can strike another blow in Britain for Henry de Bromhead by claiming Listed honours in the Actioncoach Invest In The Best Lady Godiva Mares’ Novices’ Chase at Warwick tomorrow.
The County Waterford handler has enjoyed a spectacular year on these shores, highlighted by his Champion Hurdle-Champion ChaseGold Cup treble at the Cheltenham Festival and Grand National glory.
Last month De Bromhead became the first Irish trainer to land the Betfair Chase at Haydock with the brilliant A Plus Tard – and Kapard is expected to became his latest raider to hit the target.
The five-year-old won twice over hurdles last season before coming up short when stepped up to Listed and later Grade Three company.
She looks like making the grade over the larger obstacles, however, judged on her successful chasing debut at Navan last month, where she got the better of a high-class performer in Mt Leinster.
Kapard’s official rating of 136 leaves her right in the mix for this two-and-a-halfmile contest and there is every chance she has not yet reached the ceiling of her ability. Saint Riquier outran his odds of 50-1 when runner-up in a Grade Two heat at Cheltenham four weeks ago and deserves to get his head in front on his fourth try over the small obstacles.
Trainer Ian Williams has chosen what looks the right race in the Agetur (UK) Ltd Juvenile Maiden Hurdle for his youngster, who stuck on well to get within two and threequarter lengths of Knight Salute in the Cotswolds.
Pay The Piper can also land a deserved success in the Back A Winner With MansionBet Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase at Newcastle.
After landing a walkover at Wetherby in October, Ann Hamilton’s charge has been placed behind two smart sorts in Fiddlerontheroof at Carlisle and Bravemansgame at Haydock. This two-mile contest looks an excellent opportunity for the six-year-old to regain winning ways.
Ascot De Bruyere can register a sixth success over fences in the MansionBet Faller Insurance Handicap Chase.
The 11-year-old, trained by James Ewart, made a good return after 222 days off the track when third to Brelan D’As at this venue three weeks ago. He also had wind surgery since his previous outing in April and is entitled to come on for his latest effort.
Guernesey can recoup losses for a defeat over the course and distance by going two places better in the Dave Criddle Travel And Classic Holidays Handicap Hurdle at Taunton. The Philip Hobbstrained five-year-old was only beaten half a length when taking minor honours behind An Tailliur two weeks ago when sent off the 5-2 favourite.