more Cheltenham clues at Naas

today is virtually the last chance for Cheltenham candidates to have their final prep run - the meeting starts in 16 days - and Naas stages 3 Grade 2 races, which could have some bearing on the big festival meeting. Thgis is especially true of the novice hurdle at 15.45 CET, in which Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ Matt O´Connell) really has to be successful if he is to stake a realistic Cheltenham claim. He is accompanied by stablemate (and pacemaker?) Kimberlite (Alan Crowe), but the main danger is likely to be the mare Oligarch Society (Michael O´Brien/ Davy Russell) in receipt of weight from the favourite. Weight could also be the deciding factor in the 2 mile chase at 17.20, in which the two consistent oldtimers Mansony (Arthur Moore/ Davy Russell) and Watson Lake (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) must concede 6lbs to Schindlers Hunt (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), a task which should be beyond them, However Mansony, a course specialist who has never been beaten in a chase at this track, will not be easily brushed aside, while Watson Lake, though held on recent form, can never be ignored. The 2 1/2 mile novice chase at 16.15 looks very open, although none of the contestants look up to Cheltenham standard. Good Fella (P and MF Mooney), Hurricane Carter (Thomas O´Leary/ Davy Russell) and Majestic Concorde (Dermot Weld/ RP McNamara) look the three likeliest contenders here. Those looking for a long shot should consider ex-German Dalian (Arthur Moore/ Philip Carberry) under bottom weight in the handicap hurdle at 16.50.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Smoking Aces - Puyol - Fair Ina
2. Race: Zaarito - Go Native - Roberto Goldback
3. Race: Majestic Concorde - Hurricane Carter - Good Fella
4. Race: Celtic Strand - An Cathaoir Mor - Pistol Flash
5. Race: Schindlers Hunt - Mansony - Carthalawn
6. Race: Guts For Garters - Barneys Honour - Dun Doire
7. Race: Quadrillon - Rite Of Passage - Early Doors