Grand National hopefuls in Ireland

easily the most interesting race at Fairyhouse today is the Bobbyjo Chase at 15.35 CET. Bobbyjo famously won the Grand National and that is the target for all today´s 6 runners - unfortunately our early National hope Quito de la Roque is lame and misses the race. Two runners have already shown their hand at Aintree - Seabass (Ted and Katie Walsh) finished third last year, while Oscar Time (MM Lynch/ Sam Waley-Cohen) was runner-up the previous year. Both have been brought along slowly this season, and today´s clear favourite is Prince de Beauchene (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend), who has been described by the trainer as his best National prospect. He won this race last year and won a minor event at Limerick on his only start since. The very consistent Roi du Mee (Gordon Elliott/ Davy Russell) could be the main danger today, but this is a race that must be watched for National clues rather than bet on.
As is usually the case in Ireland, Mullins can clean up on the undercard - Dogora at 14.00, Glens Melody at 14.30, Away We Go at 15.00 and Marasonnien at 16.10, all partnered by Townend, have good chances., while Wicklow Gold, ridden by the trainer´s son Paddy, can take the bumper at 17.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Dogora - Stocktons Wing - South South West
2. Race: Glens Melody - Tasitiocht - Tropical Three
3. Race: Our Girl Salley - Prince Rudi - Mackeys Forge
4. Race: Prince De Beauchene - Seabass - Roi du Mee
5. Race: Marasonnien - Golanbrook - White Star Line
6. Race: Tammys Hill - Battlefront - Solstice Knight
7. Race: Wicklow Gold - Milan Bound - Top Othe Ra