Downpatrick gearing up for the Ulster National The Toals Bookmakers Ulster National, which will take place this coming Sunday at Downpatrick, has attracted a total of 26 entries for the three and a half mile marathon chase. The Gordon Elliott trained, Romanesco – owned by Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary appears the likely top weight while the trainer also has Jimmy The Hat engaged. Enda Bolger is another doubly represented with Love Rory and Quiscover Fontaine, likewise Mouse Morris with Tinakellylad and Bruff. Ulster trainers, who have an excellent record in the Downpatrick showpiece, are well represented with Butney Boy due to represent Crossgar trainer, Colin McBratney, who was just denied at last week’s Cheltenham Festival with Carsonstown Boy in the Foxhunters. Larne based handler, Stuart Crawford who landed the St Patrick’s Day feature chase at the Maze on Monday has a trio engaged with recent Ayr winner, Mister Philson, Hidden Horizons and Musselburgh winner last time - Call Box. Dessie Hughes, Francis Flood, John Queally and Christy Roche are other top trainers with entries in the big chase. Jockeys at the meeting will enjoy the newly refurbished jockeys changing room complete with the latest facilities including sauna and extra toilets while a new pre order hot food facility has been installed in the revamped area for riders. Toals Bookmakers have nominated the Chest, Heart & Stroke Society as their preferred charity at this year’s renewal.
