Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle tips: Ruby Walsh and Frank Hickey’s best bets WITHOUT Paisley Park

3.30PM PADDY POWER STAYERS’ HURDLE

FRANK HICKEY – RONALD PUMP @ 18/1

Paisley Park really reminds me of Inglis Drever who won this race three times. In his last race in the Cleve Hurdle we were a little bit negative about him there because we felt the race was going to be run at a crawl and he might be done for a bit of speed.

The race actually was run at a crawl and he still managed to beat Summerville Boy. I just don’t see any weakness in the horse.

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There’s not that much depth against him. I think he’ll win, and I wouldn’t be surprised if in three or four years we’re looking back at Paisley Park being a three-time winner of this race.

But one to look at it in the without market is Matthew Smith’s Ronald Pump at 18/1. He ran a good closing section at Leopardstown over Christmas in a Pertemps qualifier. I wouldn’t be surprised if he finished second or third, he’s gone under the radar a little bit.

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RUBY WALSH – BACARDYS @ 33/1

Paisley Park will go off favourite and I think he’ll get the job done. Last year’s renewal was perhaps a stronger race with Sam Spinner and Faugheen chasing him home in second and third.

I think he’s superior to all his rivals in this race. Paisley Park is a wonderful horse and I think he’ll win, but if you’re looking for an edge in the without market or each/way I think Bacardys.

I think he’s been freshened up since Christmas, he seems to be in great form at home, and I think he’s a good outside shout.

• All prices correct at time of publishing.

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