What a great week it’s been here at Punchestown. I can’t believe it’s nearly over and that the UK jumps season ends this weekend, too. From Sunday, the scores are reset and they’ll start all over again.
Sandown on Saturday
The feature race on the card at Sandown (14:15) has attracted a strong field of 18. There are plenty in with chances, including Enrilo 7/1 for Paul Nicholls.
Tea Clipper 11/1 also ran very well in the Ultima at Cheltenham.
The mighty Hewick 5/4 is the likely favourite in the Oaksey Chase (14:50). He was travelling well in the Gold Cup when he fell, and that form is simply better, but you don’t know if that has left a mark on him or not.
Solo 100/30 is going to give him some race and the fact he comes here a much fresher horse could give him an advantage.
It could be a huge day for Paul Nicholls, who only needs a few winners on the card to record his best-ever prize money tally – and that includes the glory years of Kauto Star and Denman!
Iceo 15/8 is one that has been kept for this race (16:35) having won here earlier in the year.
I was really impressed with Jonbon 6/5 at Aintree two weeks ago. He sluiced up and looked as if he’d really improved again. It’s great that they’re going to the well once more with him in the Celebration Chase (13:40). It’s his first run out of novice company so he needs to step up, but he’s ever so talented on his day.
Both Greaneteen and Captain Guinness ran very well in the Betway Champion Chase and they’ll make sure it’s not an open goal.
Final day at Punchestown
At Punchestown, I am intrigued by the fact that Jonjo O’Neill is bringing Coeur Serein 12/1 over. He was disappointing in the Kim Muir but I think he found the ground too soft. He’s a dour stayer and it wouldn’t surprise me if he ran very well in the 15:10.
Echoes In Rain 100/30 ran really well from off the pace in the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and I could see her going close in the Champion Hurdle (15:50), especially as Patrick [Mullins] has chosen to ride her over Brandy Love.
Willie Mullins could end another fantastic week for the yard with his strong hand in the Champion Four Year Old Hurdle (17:00). I see no reason as to why Lossiemouth 8/11 shouldn’t beat them all again, but you never know with these young horses at the end of a long season.