Champagne Classic
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – His trainer suggested that the spring ground was a big part of the reason for his improvement. This may be worth remembering next season should he flop on winter soft. He took this step up in trip in his stride and is presumably a horse that continues to surprise his connections given the previous comments from the owner. He did this well and was a worthy winner.
Penhill
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – This did not appear to be Ruby’s finest ride of the season; that said he might well be a tricky ride. He seemed to be given a lot to do and, at times, also appeared one paced. He was a little on and off the bridle and may have more than his fair share of quirks. He has run well at two spring festivals which is worth noting for 2018.
Tin Soldier
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – I suspect he was suited by this step up in distance and this was more than likely a career best run. A lot seemed to go right for him so this may well be as good as he is.
Monalee
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – I am not convinced that he quite sees out this three miles based on his latest two runs. He will be going chasing next season though whether he will be JLT or RSA I am not sure.
Al Boum Photo
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – He hit the wings of the third last flight and was going backwards by the second last. I am not sure if those two points are connected. He could be very good as he travelled as well as any here on what was only his fifth ever run under rules. He may have dropped away through the penny not quite dropping; alternatively he could just need a softer surface as he did stay on strongly again under a gentle ride to nearly snatch fourth spot on the line.
Presenting Percy
26th April 2017 – Punchestown – The most obvious reason for this tame finish is that he left his race here behind in March. He looked a graded stayer at Cheltenham and I would not be in a hurry to mark him down too much on the strength of this disappointing performance.
