There’s a planned seven-race card down for decision at Thurles this Thursday where proceedings will get underway at 12.35pm. It’s safe to say that In The Haven will go close in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners European Breeders Fund Novice Hurdle.
A former point-to-pointer, the Philip Rothwell-trained In The Haven has finished
second on his two most recent outings and the Topanoora-sired gelding posted a
particularly meritorious effort when beaten a half-length by Noel Meade’s Orpheus Valley last time in an extended two mile six furlong maiden hurdle at Downpatrick on November 5th. A genuinely improving sort that’s clearly well-regarded by connections, In The Haven can make the most of his weight concession from Fortune Seeker here by beating Brian Moran’s admirably consistent mare.
Mutineer looks likely to give a
positive account of himself in the Templemore Handicap Chase. The Dessie Hughes-trained Mutineer led from five out to beat recent Thurles winner Cochise by an unchallenged 13 lengths in a three-mile handicap chase at Naas on November 8th and he was duly raised eight lbs for that effort to a new mark of 112. The drop down in trip of two furlongs is unlikely to inconvenience Mutineer and he’s taken to show a clean pair of heels to General Wellington.
Michael Hourigan’s Dancing Tornado should attain a deserved turn in the Clonoulty Hurdle. A former dual bumper winner at Cork for Conna-based handler Maurice Keane, Dancing Tornado looked set to play a major starring role in a two mile three furlong conditions hurdle at Naas on November 8th but for unseating at the second last with victory ultimately going to Baily View. Dancing Tornado, running in the familiar JP McManus colours, should put the record straight here by accounting for See U Bob.
Cooldine was one of our very best novice hurdlers last season and Willie Mullins’ representative can again show his appreciation for this right-handed circuit by making a triumphant start to his steeplechasing career from Joncol in the
www.thurlesraces.ie Beginners Chase. Quiscover Fontaine could provide the canny Mullins with a quick double by shrugging aside the attentions of Gallant Light in the Cahir Maiden Hurdle.
Baldini and Aeval will probably dominate the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle whilst Playboy Luke should justify the lengthy trek from trainer Brian Hamilton’s Co Down stables by obliging from Earth Mother in the concluding Liscahill INH Flat Race.
