The John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase takes centre stage on Sunday. The race has only attracted five runners, but it is a quality field. Former Gold Cup favourite First Gold is making his first appearence in Ireland, but is likely to need this outing, his first since finishing fourth to Florida Pearl at Kempton almost a year ago.
Native Upmanship is likely to provide the strongest home challenge. He won the race two years ago and was just beaten by Florida Pearl in it last year. Rince Ri, More Than A Stroll and Alcapone complete the line-up and should ensure that the French raider is made work hard.
The Stallion Owners Novice Hurdle promises to be a fascinating contest. The unbeaten Plenty Of Ice is pitched against Solerina in what has all the making of a match. Plenty Of Ice accounted for Kickam on his debut at Navan the Roche camp will fancy their chances against Solerina over this minimum trip. She looked impressive when making all to win by 25L at Thurles last time, but that was over 2m6f.
Top Bumper performer Supreme Developer makes his eagerly awaited debut over hurdles in the 2m4f maiden. He was successful over the course in April when beating the talented Alexander Milenium and The Biker.
The Tote Ireland sponsored handicap hurdle looks very competitive. Recent winners Aimees Mark and Pelican Brief will have their supporters, but Christy Roche may have the answer with Lesssaidthebetter. This one ran out of steam in the closing stages when second to Horner Rocks at Clonmel and should be fitter now.
Filed by James McMahon
