The mighty Douvan makes his eagerly-awaited return to action in today’s Grade 2 Clonmel Oil Chase.
But after his trainer Willie Mullins commented that “it’s nearly a victory to have him back”, it’s probably wise for punters to take a cautious approach.
So looking elsewhere, in the chief supporting race, the listed T A Morris Memorial Mares Chase, Gordon Elliott’s class-dropping Shattered Love – fifth to Snow Falcon in Down Royal on her seasonal debut – sets the standard.
Mullins, who confirmed yesterday that he will run Klassical Dream, Sharjah and Sadlier in the Morgiana at Punchestown on Saturday, should win the opening mares maiden hurdle with Kalanisi Og, runner-up to Mount Ida at Galway.
He also has prospects with once-raced K’chou Du Pecos Aa in the INH Stallion Owners Maiden Hurdle, and Tactical Move – beaten by the smart Ard Abhainn in a Punchestown festival bumper – in the finale.
lMullins indicated yesterday that 11-year-old Faugheen is likely to make his chasing debut at Punchestown on Saturday, while star mare Laurina will head to Gowran Park on Saturday week for her first outing over the bigger obstacles.
With ground conditions expected to be in his favour, Un De Sceaux is bound for the Tingle Creek at Sandown again while Un De Sceaux, such an excting novice last spring, might start back in the Hilly Way in Cork.
Peter O’Hehir's tips
12.40. Kalanisi Og (nap)
1.10. K’Chou De Pecs Aa
1.40. Crazyheart
2.15. Envoi Pierji
2.50. Monalee
3.20. Shattered Love
3.55. Tactical Move
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