Cheltenham
12.45 McVicar is 2 out of 2 over hurdles but faces a stiffer task here. I prefer Far West whose win at Chepstow has been franked by the runner up.
1.20 Our Father ticks most of the boxes here. The stable have been a bit quiet but had a good winner today in Dynaste.
1.55 Teaforthree is a tough sort and has winning form at Cheltenham. He does not have a great record first time up though and I get the feeling that his target is the Welsh National. King Fontaine is interesting as he has dropped to what looks a winnable mark. Galaxy Rock and Bradley were 2nd and 4th here last month over a shorter trip. Galaxy Rock won this race last season while Bradley is also a course winner. Both will benefit from this step up in trip and look sure to go well.
2.35 Grand Crus is the class act in the race and look to have the right profile. The rapidly improving Hunt Ball looks the danger.
3.05 Lovcen should be up to winning a race like this and is one for the short list although he might need more cut in the ground.
3.40 Brick Red tries a shorter trip here after looking like a non stayer last time out. At around 11/1 he has an each way chance.
Punchestown selections
11.55 Mount Benbulben
1.35 Simenon
3.15 Glen’s Melody
3.50 Clondaw Court
Uttoxeter
3.45 Up and Go
Wetherby
12.10 Stormy Weather
2.25 Mac Aeda
3.25 Fleet Dawn
Picture courtesy of the artist Lisa Miller
ahorse 