In-form McConnell throws two darts at Lartigue John McConnell has two runners at opposite ends of the handicap as he bids to take the feature Liam Healy Memorial Lartigue Hurdle at Listowel on Tuesday. Pearl Of The West has joint top weight of 11st 10lb in the 55,000 euros prize over two miles, while Itsalonglongroad is just 1lb off the lowest burden to be carried. McConnell feels the 9lb hike Pearl Of The West was given after her win at Bellewstown two weeks ago might prove too much for the daughter of Teofilo, who has been so consistent throughout the summer. “Pearl Of The West won well the last time but got a hefty rise in the weights, so it will be hard for her off top weight, especially if the ground deepens,” said the Co Meath handler. Itsalonglongroad has had just the three runs, all earlier in the year, but has had a recent spin on the Flat. Should things go right, McConnell would not be surprised to see the Lawman gelding be thereabouts. “He ran quite well on the Flat last time at Bellewstown. He’s unexposed over hurdles and if he does things right, he could have an each-way chance,” he said. A competitive field includes Gordon Elliott’s pair of the other top-weight Veneer Charm and Kuiper Belt, who has won his last four starts, two on the Flat and two over hurdles. Willie Mullins is represented by the twice-raced Dreamtide, Joseph O’Brien has Apparition and Gold Seal while Jessica Harrington has Conron and a Galway handicap hurdle winner Rovetta, who have both had recent runs on the Flat.
