A very tricky Flat Race to finish the Punchestown Festival in 2016 but a big price tip to finish in Tikeen Away (14/1). Mr Patrick Mullins is a class booking for this unraced horse who is a half brother to Sir Scorpion (finished 2nd on his debut in the Champion Bumper for the same trainer). While we’re not convinced Tikken Away has the same level of ability, he is nicely bred and has links to other bumper winners so he could well outrun his price despite his lack of experience.
Aiden O’Brien’s Mai Fitzs Jack (7/1) is one of the most experienced runners in this flat contest and he’s had some good results in his five point-to-point outings so far. The five year old finished third and second on his first two runs, but was a faller when struggling as the odds-on favourite on his third appearance. But his last two runs, both on decent ground, have resulted in wins and after the latest of those at Cragmore last February, he was signed up by the O’Brien team for £26,000. It’s worrying he hasn’t been seen for over a year though and he’s weak in the market considering he has the best PTP form in the book.
Stretchingthetruth (4/1) looks like Noel Meade’s best chance of getting a win here, after winning on debut back in November, coming out on top in a four year old point-to-point at Dromahane. He went off as a 7/1 shot and was prominent throughout the race and out-battled Royal Supremo, who has come first and second in two flat races since, to win by a head. Nina Carberry will be in the saddle for this one, as he looks to make it two wins from two.
Gordon Elliott’s Mind Boggler (11/1) has also got plenty of runs under his belt and won a point-to-point at Boulta on his last appearance in November. He went off as an 8/1 shot and despite a slow start, he started to make good progress after the fourth last, taking the lead and running in well on the flat to beat Truckers Glory by three quarters of a length. After that win, he was brought by Gordon Elliott and Oliver Murphy for £30,000 in the February sales this year, so they will be hoping he is open to plenty more progression.
Rathnure Rebel (12/1) may not have raced since his debut run over two years ago, but on that occasion he cruised home to seal a very impressive victory. He lead for most of the contest and pulled away with three to go, eventually leaving Three Musketeers, who is now a multiple winner with a chasing rating of 152, some ten lengths behind him in second. His Gigginstown connections will be hoping he will be just as good in this race, despite the lengthy absence.