16:10 – Trusted Ally
Trusted Ally put in a solid debut at Limerick ten days ago, finishing 3rd of 8 behind Giorgio Vasari and Alex D. His run gave the impression he would improve for the experience, and he could be in line to show off that improvement today. His stable is in good form, and he’ll be well-fancied today, though Wembley will likely provide some competition for him.
16:40 – Kokura
Kokura has shown great promise this year, with a 2nd place and a win in succession back in the winter months. He was first past the post last January at Dundalk, but was disqualified for interference behind Mr Mooj. He looked strong in his seasonal bow at Leopardstown, but faltered to 7th of 15. Has a great chance off 77 today having shown promise at Naas earlier this month, finishing 4th behind the well-handicapped Star Of Cashel.
17:15 – Royal Canford
Having put in a great showing at last year’s festival, Royal Canford is well-fancied today and will start in stall one. Returned from the quarantine break to finish 5th of 16 at Leopardstown, but there was a lot to like about her run. Her stable was amongst the winners last week, and she’ll be in a good position to improve on last year’s 2nd-place finish.
17:45 – The Mpex Kid
The Mpex Kid had a lot of time out, and didn’t run from July of last year until just a month ago. He didn’t look like he had any cobwebs, however, and stormed to a win at Fairyhouse in his return, which was his seasonal/handicap debut. He’s been raised 11lb, and will be tipped to build on that win from last month.
18:15 – Centroid
Centroid, who is the half-brother to Enable, and made a solid start in 2018, but almost missed two years afterwards. A win in his debut at Leopardstown in August 2018 was followed by a 4th of 5 at Naas, but his results since his return have been varied. A 12th of 18 at Curragh was followed up by a more impressive 4th of 15 at Leopardstown. Stepping up to the trip might do wonders today.
18:45 – Sharjah
Sharjah will be difficult to get away from today. He had a nice run at Curragh last time out, finishing 4th of 18. The Champion Hurdle runner-up has shown a lot of promise, and shouldn’t be affected by being 2lb higher. He seems to be his stable’s first-choice, which says a lot for his ability.
19:15 – Varna Gold
Varna Gold may still be a maiden after nine starts for Dermot McLoughlin, but has put in several decent efforts of late. Had a nice run at Fairyhouse last month, and should enjoy the 2f extra to travel today. He stayed on nicely at the end of the run at Fairyhouse and is well-fancied to put in a good showing today.
19:45 – Mt Leinster
Mt Leinster is a nice bumper winner, and took well to hurdles last time out. He’s finished in the frame in Grade 1 and 2 novice events, and was rated 142. He’s been selected as his stable’s selected runner here, and is ground versatile, so should enjoy the conditions today. The 6yo finished 3rd and 4th in his last two outings, and will be fancied to build on his Boxing Day win at Leopardstown.