RACING:THE CARD might not end up consisting of a full eight races but jump racing looks set to take place in Ireland for the first time in 17 days when the Cork track comes to the rescue tomorrow.
A 3.0pm inspection is scheduled for this afternoon as doubts persist about whether the chase track will thaw out in time.
Both steeplechase races, including the Grade Two O’Connell Group Hilly Way Chase, have been moved to the end of the programme and the maiden hurdle has been divided to allow a six-race card if the chases don’t pass muster.
“Parts of the hurdle track are frozen but there is a thaw and we’re not overly worried that. But the chase track is taking longer and that’s mainly why we’re inspecting tomorrow,” said the Cork manager, Michael O’Neill, yesterday. “But in terms of racing going ahead, I would be very, very positive.”
One man anxious that the Hilly Way will take place is champion trainer Willie Mullins who is triple-handed as he pursues a four-in-a-row in the €50,000 feature. The 2008 winner Scotsirish is back and so is the Grade One winner, Kempes. However, it is last year’s winner, Golden Silver, who looks a clear pick on figures and has the benefit of a run already this term.
“Golden Silver will like the track and will love the ground as long as it thaws out,” Mullins said yesterday. “We’re just finding it difficult to find opportunities for the other two and we want to get a run under their belts.”
The focus could yet end up being put on the Grade Three Stayers’ Novice Hurdle which may be dominated by the two mares in the six-runner event. Askanna has been in prolific form and will relish the three-mile trip. Araucaria was beaten at Down Royal last time out but that was over two miles and a couple of previous victories at two and a half indicate tomorrow’s trip could help her.
The former high-class flat operator The Bull Hayes will attempt to make it third time lucky over flights tomorrow but might be hard pressed to maintain his four -lengths advantage over Four Commanders on Thurles form behind Tadhg.
Punchestown is due to host the rescheduled John Durkan Memorial Chase card on Tuesday but course manager Richie Galway said yesterday he is only “hopeful” it will go ahead.
“We have some chance because there is a thaw. But I am only hopeful and a long way from being confident we will race,” he said.
