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Donal Murphy

Donal Murphy

Barry hoping Bentelimar can rule Supreme

Mon 2nd Mar 2015, 17:37

Shay Barry trainer of BentelimarShay Barry trainer of Bentelimar
© Photo Healy Racing

Shay Barry is hopeful that Bentelimar can make his presence felt in the opening race of the Cheltenham Festival, the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle.

Formerly trained by Philip Fenton, the son of Beneficial has five wins to his name, recording his biggest success to date in a Listed novice hurdle at Punchestown last month.

The James Ryan-owned chestnut holds entries in four races at the Festival, but Barry confirmed the Supreme is the target.

"He is 99% sure to go for the Supreme. The owner is keen to go for it and that'€™s what he'™ll go for. He is in the Neptune and two handicaps as well but they are just as a precaution." Barry said.

"He is in super form and he galloped after racing at Leopardstown on Saturday. Fingers crossed now that he will travel to Cheltenham in good order.

"I think he has come on from winning at Punchestown and I'€™ll be disappointed if he is not in the shake-up.

"He will be my first runner at Cheltenham and it is great to be going with a chance. Brian O'€™Connell will ride him."

About Donal Murphy
Donal graduated from Maynooth University in 2010 with a BBS in Equine Business and since attained a diploma in Sports Journalism from Dublin Business School. He holds a variety of roles in the horse racing industry, reporting for the Press Association and p2p.ie, while also working for SIS and the Tote. From Wexford, he is a keen runner and has completed over 100 parkruns at various locations around the country.