TOM FOLEY might have been hoping for fewer opponents for Danoli as the eight year old has his introductory run over fences at Clonmel this afternoon, but, surprisingly, 13 horses have been left in the London Heathrow Captain Beginners Chase.
Although No Tag, a former Galway Hurdle winner, and tough handicap hurdler Consharon would have to be seriously considered in most novice chases, they would struggle to stay in contention if Danoli approaches anything like top gear.
Of course, Danoli's trainer has rightly stressed that getting the horse around safely is the primary aim, and racegoers will be more than happy just to see this fine performer finish sound. Then, with luck, there will be several other opportunities to see if he can bounce back after his serious injury to be as successful over fences as he once was a bumper and hurdles horse.
Norman Williamson picked up a four day suspension for improper riding" when partnering Miss Bertaine into second place, a short head behind King Of Kerry at Limerick. Shane Broderick now takes over on the seven year old, who may find the additional half mile of the London Gatwick Handicap Hurdle to her liking.
Coast Is Clear was staying on when a good third to Canadian Project and Angel From Heaven at Navan over 10 furlongs. The Rainbow Quest filly has already won twice this season over today's longer trip, and with the in form Ted Durcan claiming, she is worth a bet.
Dublin Treasure, one of the co favourites, looked a real threat to the eventual winner, Montelisa when blundering at the last hurdle and unseating his rider. Frank Woods now takes over on the Mickey Flynn trained runner and race combination may get the better of Ioder Wan and Forest Princess.
Flynn must also have prospects of landing the London Stansted Maiden Hurdle with Noble Shoon, who ran well for a long way at Punchestown recently before dropping out of contention before the last. Preference, however, is for Jolly John, who made a couple of bad mistakes when fourth to Private Peace at Limerick, Conor O'Dwyer, who is having a great run on Kim Bailey's horses in Britain, takes the ride.
Kevin Manning may cut John Murtagh's lead in the jockeys' championship to one by steering Dr Bones to victory in the Manchester Handicap. Placed at both Tipperary and Galway on his most recent starts, Dr Bones may have most to fear from the lightly raced Malacoda.
Absent since finishing a distant second to the front running Dun Belle at Gowran in April, Holly's Pride has now changed stables and may be worth supporting.
