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Welcome to the relaunched Eoin's Racing Bulletin!
As Christmas approaches we have already had a feast of top class National Hunt racicing with the promise of still better to come.
The chasers have been more interesting than the hurdlers this year. See More Business put down an early marker to his claims for the Blue Riband but more impressive was reigning champion Looks Like Trouble at Down Royal. Sadly a tendon strain has curtailed his season and we may never see him on a racecourse again.
But just as one star dimmed another twinkled as Nick Dundee made his eagerly anticipated comeback at Navan on 9th December. Untouchable as a novice two seasons back, he looked bigger and stronger than ever. Attacking his fences with welcome enthusiasm he disposed of his rivals in clinical fashion. Judging by his blowing afterwards he should improve considerably fitness-wise for the run and he now heads for the Ericsson Chase in Leopardstown at Christmas. Quotes of 16/1 look tempting for the Gold Cup - only 10/1 in places.
Also heading for the Ericsson is Native Upmanship (in same ownership as Nick Dundee) who got the better of Florida Pearl in an absolutely thrilling finish to the John Durkan memorial chase at punchestown on 10th December. He seems to be improving all the time and possesses a deadly turn of foot - demonstrated against Frozen Groom in Navan first time out. His jumping however is still just short of championship standard.
Of the novices, Shotgun Willy has looked exceptional in England and should take the Sun Alliance Chase enroute to Gold Cup 2002. The Irish challengers do not quite look up to his standard although Sackville and Well Ridden (unlucky last time) are more than useful. A return to hurdling is probably in the best interests of Limestone Lad.
In the 2 mile novice division Best Mate and Dusk Duel have looked good in England. Knife Edge is the Irish ace here. Now owned by JP McManus, he showed a lot of class over hurdles and will hopefully do the same at Leopardstown at Christmas. Crocadee is another english novice who should pick up plenty more races this season.
Of the hurdlers, Istabraq still looks untouchable. His nearest pursuers could be the Mark Pitman-trained pair Ashley Park and Hitman. Stage Affair will take on Istabraq at Christmas before going over fences.
Paul Nicholls' novice pair of St Pirran and Valley Henry should both be followed. The former won a very hot race at Cheltenham on 8th December. Valley Henry looks right out of the top drawer. A point-to-point winner in Ireland, he should not be opposed wherever he goes. Direct Access, another Irish point winner will win his share of races also.
Others to look out for:
If you have any comments or for more information email me at eoin@sjp.clara.co.uk.
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