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Ryan aware of Foildubh's task

FoildubhFoildubh
© Photo Healy Racing

John Ryan is hoping for better luck than he managed over Christmas as Foildubh tackles the Beamish Stout Phil Sweeney Memorial Chase at Thurles.

The nine-year-old was supposed to run in the Dial-A-Bet Chase at Leopardstown but was unable to make the journey after the jeep towing his trailer caught fire.

While Ryan is thrilled with the condition of his stable star, he feels giving 7lb to Willie Mullins' Call The Police could be a stiff ask.

"We had no luck over Christmas with him, our jeep gave us some trouble, but he's in great form," said Ryan.

"I think he'll run very well but giving Call The Police weight is going to be very tough. I'm not happy about it and on the figures we shouldn't be winning.

"We've got Paul Carberry back on board though, he gets on very well with him so he's worth 7lb.

"Davy Condon thought two miles at Cork was just a bit sharp for him the last day, so two miles and two furlongs should be right for him.

"We were giving Call The Police 2lb at Punchestown (in May) and there wouldn't have been much between them when Willie's horse brought us down at the last."

Ryan also has a second string to his bow in Glenstar, who was last successful at Tramore in August.

"I think Glenstar will run very well. His jumping went to pieces in handicaps so I entered him in this because I knew it would be a small field," he said.

"He needs to get his confidence back but he's very well and I think he's at his best when he's fresh."

Odonimee and Vinnes Friend complete the five-runner field.