TOP AMATEUR jockey Nina Carberry returns to action at Downpatrick this afternoon after over five weeks on the injury sidelines, and she can secure an ideal comeback with a bumper victoryon Jim Bowie, writes Brian O’Connor.
Carberry broke a toe at Leopardstown in January when she hit a running rail, and returned to the weighroom with blood streaming from her boot.
She was leading the amateur championship at the time.
But the former champion is back in good time for Cheltenham and Jim Bowie looks a good opportunity for Carberry to make an immediate impact.
Noel Meade’s horse ran on noticeably well in a maiden hurdle at Navan last month won by Kerb Appeal, and it looks significant that he is now going to race on the level.
Today’s feature is the Toals Ulster Grand National, which can prove a good opportunity for the hardy stayer Rock Diplomat.
Paul Townend’s mount was fancied to go close in Punchestown’s Grand National Trial but crashed out when making some ground.
Rock Diplomat has run since and did well when third to Sharekan over hurdles.
Today’s three-and-a-half miles will play to his strengths.
