BIG NAMES REMAIN IN SUNDAY’S GRADE 1s
Honeysuckle (4/7) heads a field of 11 entries for Sunday’s BARONERACING.COM Hatton’s Grace Hurdle. Henry De Bromhead’s mare will bid to emulate Solerina and Apples Jade in winning three successive Hatton’s Grace Hurdles.
Among Honeysuckle’s likely rivals are Latest Exhibition (20/1), Klassical Dream (3/1), and 2020 runner-up Ronald Pump (14/1). Latest Exhibition (20/1) was last seen contesting the Irish National at Fairyhouse, but connections seem intent on pursuing a campaign over hurdles this season.
Willie Mullins’ aims to win a fourth Hatton’s Grace and Klassical Dream is one of three entries for Mullins, who last won the Hatton’s Grace with Arctic Fire six years ago. Galway Hurdle winner Saldier (9/2) is also among the 11 that stood their ground on Tuesday.
My Mate Mozzie (5/2) will defend his unbeaten record over hurdles in the BARONERACING.COM Royal Bond Novice Hurdle. Gavin Cromwell’s star has created a big impression with two wins over hurdles this season, including a win at Grade 3 level.
Commenting in Tuesday’s Racing Post, Cromwell said: “He came out of Navan well and I think going right-handed is going to suit him better, considering the way he jumped a bit to his right then. He seems to be in good nick.”
Gordon Elliott has won three of the last four renewals of the Royal Bond, and he could be two-handed on Sunday with Mighty Potter (7/2) and recent Fairyhouse winner Three Stripe Life (3/1).
Gabynako (7/4) and Lifetime Ambition (9/4) are the market leaders for the BARONERACING.COM Drinmore Novice Chase. Lifetime Ambition landed a Down Royal beginners chase on his seasonal debut and has been hailed as a potential star since that win.
Gavin Cromwell in Tuesday’s Racing Post said on Gabynako: “ I think two and a half miles is probably on the sharp side for him but the way he jumped last time, if he put in a round of jumping like that you’d have to be happy to take your chance.”
Barney O’Hare, CEO Bar One Racing said: “We are looking forward to three exciting Grade 1s on Sunday. The supporting card is strong with a Grade 3 juvenile hurdle that produced Zanahiyr last year, while the ultra-competitive handicaps should prove strong betting heats.”