Samcro still has something to prove at top level and that is not accounted for in his skinny odds for the Champion Hurdle, which ask us to be fans rather than dispassionate judgesHappy Samcro day! Whether you’re one of his many fans or you remain a sceptic, day four at the Punchestown festival is all about one horse and even the uncommitted are now forced to choose a side. Related: Faugheen overturns form book to secure trainers’ title for Willie Mullins Related: And they're off! Martin Amis's Gamblers – in pictures Perth 1.30 Floral Bouquet 2.05 Thorpe 2.40 Rons Dream 3.15 Our Lucas 3.45 Kings Eclipse 4.15 Mill Forge 4.45 Cultram Abbey 5.15 Imperial Acolyte Continue reading...
‘That’s why Ireland’s Ireland!’ The racing gang is happy for Paul Townend, while warning him not to do it again...I’m aware that the instant forgiveness which rained down on Paul Townend will not have pleased all onlookers. Some, including those who fancied Al Boum Photo, will still be feeling sore about what happened on Tuesday and are perhaps a little queasy about the way that “the racing gang”, as Townend called them, clasped the erring jockey to their bosom on day two at Punchestown. Some will undoubtedly feel that a jockey who made such a mistake should have to suffer for a bit more than 24 hours. Related: Paul Townend recovers from calamity to regain winning touch in ‘unreal’ style...
It’s Punchestown Gold Cup day after Tuesday’s dramatic action, while racing returns to Epsom tooThere was some loose talk around the racecourse on Tuesday that Paul Townend might not want to come back and ride there again this week, in light of what he did on Al Boum Photo. But that wouldn’t be very jockey-like and, on reflection, I think getting straight back on the horse is the healthiest and most likely thing for him to do. After all, his four booked rides for day two at Punchestown include two that are expected to start favourite. Related: Jockey claims he heard a shout telling him to miss final fence at Punchestown Catterick 1.50 Coiste Bodhar 2.25 Viking Way 3.00 Talaaqy...
Douvan can deliver again for Willie Mullins in his Irish trainers’ championship battle with Gordon ElliottA calculator will be an essential accessory for committed racegoers at Punchestown’s Festival meeting this week as, for the second year running, Gordon Elliott and Willie Mullins throw everything at the final five days of their year-long tussle for the Irish trainers’ championship. For one of the pair, disappointment awaits on Saturday and, if it is Mullins who gets over the line to win his 11th straight title and his 12th in all, Elliott will spend the summer wondering just what he needs to do to get his name on the roll of honour for the first time. Related: Gronkowski unlikely to run in Kentucky...
Filly could provide a “life-changing” moment for charity if connections decide to supplement her for NewmarketIt’s too early to be making actual predictions for the 1,000 Guineas but I know for sure which horse I’ll be cheering for, having been told by the owner-breeder that all prize money won by Dan’s Dream goes to a spinal injury research charity. Dan’s Dream won a notable trial race in the Fred Darling at Newbury on Saturday and the question now is whether she should be supplemented for the Newmarket Classic a week on Saturday, at a cost of £30,000. Related: Aidan O’Brien team steps up a gear as Order Of St George returns in style Newton Abbot 1.30 Goldslinger 2.00 Sensulano 2.30...