2.45 Naas
Naas Directors Plate Novice Chase (Grade 3) (Class 1) (5YO plus)
Winner €17,875
Advice: 3 pts win Bog Warrior (11/10 Boylesports)
Bog Warrior: Held in nothing but the highest regard by his
trainer and big pointer to future prospects when Flemenstar (whom he beat by 7
lengths with ease) bolted up at Navan on the bridle next time (that his chasing
debut); Hugely impressive in Drinmore Chase romp and made amends for fall in
Leopardstown Grade 1 when cantering home in weak event latest; Should take the
beating. 
Flemenstar: One of the most promising novice chasers seen
this season, unable to cope with Bog Warrior on debut before cantering home
next time out at Navan; Suspicion is that he’s improved since, with hugely
impressive wins at Navan and again and in Irish Arkle being supplemented by a
gutsy win at this track over 2 miles; Main danger to the favourite. Rathlin: Looking like he’s lost his way over fences but
hugely impressive in last three runs since things have all come together for
him, with a consummate win last time over this C&D entitling him to respect;
Faced two much better horses than what he’s been beating though. 
Frisco Depot: Grade 1 fourth over hurdles who did well to
pull competitive event at Fairyhouse out of the fire on his seasonal debut but
had only a neck in hand of Aitmatov, who was beaten out of sight but Rathlin 10
days later; Pulled up last time and hard to fancy.
VERDICT: One of the best novice chases run in Ireland all
season, even if it has just 4 runners. Some will be disappointed to see BOG
WARRIOR and Flemenstar missing the Cheltenham Festival but seeing them here is
the next best thing and ready preference is for Tony Martin’s charge to get the
better of his rival, now a Grade 1 winner, for the second time. Rathlin deserves
respect but Frisco Depot looks held.
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