Punchestown Betting Preview for February 9th

There is a precautionary inspection set at 8am local time just before this raceday kicks off but course officials are considered to be optimistic about the action at Punchestown unfolding. The going will be heavy and this complicates matters for several contenders so be sure to watch out for withdrawals.

1:10 Cross Country Chase

A few classy types line up to open things up and Garde Champetre deserves respect  as a long-distance staying specialist and he’s been knocking on the door with a pair of second-place finishes in his last two efforts. This looks a more winnable field than he’s tackled in the past so he deserves respect here and is on another planet from a ratings standpoint.

1:40 Novice Chase

Roi Du Mee or Bob Lingo look the standouts here with a rather slim field set to contest this 2m6f. A withdrawal makes this one even less profitable as the top-weights will likely stroll home here given the small penalty.

2:10 Handicap Chase

A tougher field in this one, but plenty of action expected on the run-in with Supreme Builder looking well-placed to grab an elusive victory. He was a beaten favourite last time and will be dangerous with a quality trip. Hidden Present unseated the rider last time but will be able to take advantage of plenty of weight on the top contenders.

2:45 Novice Hurdle

So Young is entered here but will likely opt for the Deloitte Novice Hurdle this weekend instead. Should he run, he deserves plenty of respect but might get nipped by the Pier. Should So Young line up, you’ll get a good look at a potential festival break-out.

3:15 Maiden Hurdle

Willy Mullins saddles Popcorn fresh off a solid victory over the flat. The lightly-raced eight year-old kept on well in the run-in and will likely look to track the leaders here. It will be interesting to see if he handles the going as his score was over soft to heavy

3:45 Handicap Hurdle

A massive field for this one makes it anyone’s guess but Indifference Curve has demonstrated acumen at the 3m distance.

4:15 Handicap Hurdle

Top weigfht Accordion To Paddy is carrying a pile of weight in this one but has been hitting well in his last few. Mr Eko also enters off a victory and those two look the only genuine standouts here.

4:45 Mares Flat Race

Typical end to an Irish card sees a few up-and-down mares line up for an INH flat contest. Casoran enters off a layoff while Dazzling Susie scored last time out and doesn’t give up too much weight.