Bishopsfurze is as low as 6 to 1 favourite with some bookmakers ahead of tomorrow’s Goffs Thyestes Chase at Gowran, with layers convinced Willie Mullins has the material to win the prize for a fifth time.
On His Own was successful for the champion trainer last year and his winning list also features Homer Wells (2007), Hedgehunter (2004) and Micko’s Dream (2000). Bishopsfurze won his sole start this season over hurdles at Thurles in November.
Topweight Call The Police is another Mullins hope prominent in the betting while last year’s runner-up Tullintain will be back for another crack at the race after an unlucky defeat over Christmas at Limerick.
“Jim Dreaper’s horse [Harpsy Cord] fell and interfered badly with us,” trainer Robert Tyner said yesterday.
The closing date for the 21st Wills Writing Awards is February 28th this year.
The awards, commemorating the former journalist and jockey Martin Wills, have three categories – under-26, under-19 and under-15.
The awards are for creative writing on a horse-racing theme. Entry requirements are available on the Wills Writing Award website.
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