17:10
Sliabh Luachra Hurdle
2m 4f
Going: Good to Yielding (Yielding in places)
Surface: Turf
Draw Advantage: NoneDARVER STAR is hard to oppose at these weights but you wouldn't call him bomb-proof. He has finished out the back in his last three races but they were all at Grade One level, and it is reasonable to assume that he can enjoy himself in this company. He switched back to hurdling in Punchestown to contest the Grade One Champion Hurdle but could make no impression as a 100/1 chance behind the imperious Honeysuckle. The peak of his novice chasing career came when runner-up in a Grade One novice chase at Leopardstown over Christmas. If the former Champion Hurdle third runs anywhere near his hurdle mark of 155, he should oblige. Scarpeta is next best on ratings (145), so has a good shot at prize money. Chosen Mate reverts back to hurdles and has ability in this sphere. Darasso and Snow Falcon would welcome rain.
DARVER STAR is hard to oppose at these weights but you wouldn't call him bomb-proof. He has finished out the back in his last three races but they were all at Grade One level, and it is reasonable to assume that he can enjoy himself in this company. He switched back to hurdling in Punchestown to contest the Grade One Champion Hurdle but could make no impression as a 100/1 chance behind the imperious Honeysuckle. The peak of his novice chasing career came when runner-up in a Grade One novice chase at Leopardstown over Christmas. If the former Champion Hurdle third runs anywhere near his hurdle mark of 155, he should oblige. Scarpeta is next best on ratings (145), so has a good shot at prize money. Chosen Mate reverts back to hurdles and has ability in this sphere. Darasso and Snow Falcon would welcome rain.