Graded N.H. races in Ireland

3 N.H. meetings today, but while the U.K.fixtures at Exeter and Towcester consist mainly of low level handicaps, there is decent racing in Ireland. There are some very promising types entered in the Grade Two novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 14,25 CET at Navan. All 8 runners are last-time-out winners and whoever scores today will have to be considered for the top races to come later in the season.

The most interesting runner is Carriganog (Aidan O´Brien/ Tony McCoy) and it should not be forgotten that the champion flat trainer originally made his reputation in N.H. racing and trained the great Istabraq in the same JP McManus colours to win 3 Champion Hurdles. Carriganog has a long way to go before he reaches those heights, but has won his 2 races over sticks very easily and is our tentative selection here, although all 7 of his opponents must be taken seriously.

McCoy alao dons the McManus colours in the following beginners chase at 14.55 on Noel Meade´s Ned Buntline and this could be another winner for the team. In both these races Willie Mullins and Riuby Walsh, who can do no wrong at present, have fancied runners as well, and they should certainly take the opening maiden hurdle at 13.25 with Moyle Park. Everybody in Irish racing seems to be related so it is no surprise to see 3 Mullins siblings saddle runners in the listed mares bumper at 15.25: Shesafoxylady (Willie and Paddy), Elsie (Tom and David) and Princess Leya (Margaret and DG Lavery). One of them will probably win, but we would not like to predict which one, but this is another race to provide valuable clues for the future.

The big betting races here are the valuable handicap chase at 15.25and hurdle half an hour later. McManus has 4 runners in the former race, and although McCoy rides top-weight Colbert Station, trained by Ted Walsh, we shall take a chance on the Monsun gelding Shot from the Hip (Edward O´Grady/ Mark Walsh - strangely enough no relation), while our longshot for the latter race is Themoonandsixpence, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Ted´s daughter, and Ruby´s sister, Katie Walsh.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Moyle Park - Wrath Of Titans - No Cash Flow
2. Race: Go Paddy Go - De Glebe Star - Firethorn
3. Race: Lots Of Memories - Azorian - Carriganog
4. Race: Ballycasey - Mount Colah - Hit The Headlines
5. Race: Colbert Station - Jamsie Hall - Goonyella
6. Race: Jetson - Rattan - Jennies Jewel
7. Race: Princess Leya - Shesafoxylady - Elsie