The Meath & Tara committee take charge of a two-day meeting at Fairyhouse a week before they had been due to host their traditional spring fixture at the home of the Irish Grand National and the opening day features a total of 148 entries.
Race 1 – Tattersalls Ireland Derby Sale 4YO Auction Maiden
Money Heist could be turned out quickly having made his debut at Cork last Saturday, but as he proved to be no match for Cool Survivor on that occasion, preference is given to FIGHT WITH FURY, one of three possible runners in this for Matthew Flynn OConnor.
The Ocovango gelding was only beaten less than five lengths in a point-to-point bumper at Wexford on his debut last month and should step forward from it in this.
Race 2 – Goffs Punchestown Sale 4YO Geldings Maiden
REGARDE is very well-bred being a close relation of The New One and having cost E65,000 as a store he was sent off as the favourite for a Wexford point-to-point bumper last month.
Whilst unable to pick up in the home straight on that occasion and finishing behind the potentially re-opposing Right With Fury, he could well be a different prospect in this.
The entries are dominated with newcomers, but Valirann Gold is another with recent experience as he finished fifth at Punchestown.
Race 3 – Hayes Stud & INHSC Supporting Point-to-Points 5YO Mares Maiden
TRICKALIGHT was an eye-catcher when coming through to finish second against proven rivals in a Mares Hunter Chase at Cork on Easter Monday and the drop back to maiden company here could be rewarded.
Ramble West was only narrowly beaten last Saturday and has posted two very creditable efforts but has to overcome a quick turnaround, whilst the improving Abbeyfeale and Sevenofus are others to consider.
Race 4 – GAIN Equine Nutrition 5YO Geldings Maiden
FAMOUS BRIDGE is very well related given that he is a half-brother of recent Cheltenham Festival winner and point-to-point graduate Telmesomethinggirl.
He ran well on his debut to finish third in the point-to-point bumper at Punchestown that was won by Green Vault and is sure to have improved for that introduction.
Of the likely dangers, Great Ocean represents a yard that were in good form last weekend with winners at both Cork and Tipperary, whilst Coolvalla, Dorans Bridge and Since Day One are others that should not be too far away.
