Kerry National News Quito De La Roque has been allotted top weight of 11st 10lbs for next week’s Guinness Kerry National. The dual Grade 1 winner is reported to be in great shape by his trainer Colm Murphy who said:’ we’ll just have to wait and see what the weather does. I’d say he won’t run if the ground is fast, but if we get a good drop of rain, there is every chance that he’ll run. He seems to be in great form and he looks as well as ever.’ Forpadydeplasterer will represent local trainer Tom Cooper who said:’ he has a lovely weight (10st 10lbs) on his back and he is in super form. This race has been the plan for a while now and while it looks very competitive, I couldn’t be happier with him. I know there is rain forecast, but he loves good ground, so I’d be hoping that they don’t get too much (rain).’ As expected owner J P McManus has plenty to choose from for next week’s feature, including the first three home in the Galway Plate, Carlingford Lough, Quantitativeeasing and Jacksonslady. Frank Berry Racing Manager for McManus said:’ we have a good few entries, but a lot will depend on the weather. The first three home in the Galway Plate have come out of that race well, but a couple of them are ground dependant.’ ‘We’ll have a good look at the race and we’ll also keep an eye on the weather. I am not sure yet what we’ll run, but we’ll be represented in the race.’ Eric McNamara saddled first two home in last year’s renewal, when Faltering Fullback accounted for Questions Answered. ‘It has been a very lucky race for me and last year was very special,’ reported McNamara. He added:’ I’ll run Questions Answered next week. I haven’t managed to get a run into him, but I am not too concerned about that as I have plenty done with him. He has a nice weight and as long as the ground is not fast he’ll run. Good ground would be fine for him, but ideally he’d like it soft.’ Commenting on the weights, National Hunt Handicapper Noel O’Brien said:’ it looks a very competitive renewal and the fact that we have Quito De La Roque, who is a former Grade 1 winner with top weight of 11st 10lbs, emphasizes what a good race it is.’ O'Brien added: 'we also have the first three home in this year’s Galway Plate, along with the winner of last year’s Plate in Bob Lingo. Willie Mullins is well represented with the likes of former Thyestes Chase winner On His Own.’
