Shinrock set for chase debut Paul Nolan is hoping for a nice cut in the ground so Shinrock Paddy can make his debut over fences in the Buck House Novice Chase at Punchestown on Thursday. The Enniscorthy handler has three engaged in the Grade 3 contest but Barry Connell's classy hurdler is the most likely to line-up. The Deploy gelding was a Grade 1 winner over hurdles as a novice and is an exciting recruit to the chasing game. Recent Gowran Park winner Westmeath is set to sidestep the race as it comes too soon while Far Away So Close, a faller at Limerick on Sunday, is also out. “Shinrock Paddy would be the most obvious one if the ground is right,” said Nolan today. “We would like a bit of rain and we'll see tomorrow. He would like it on the yielding side. We're anxious to get a run but the ground has to be safe. “If he doesn't run on Thursday there is a beginners chase for him at Galway over 2m6f.” Westmeath has Galway as his target: “There is a novice in Galway for him and we'll stick to a winners of one or novice for him. “It was tempting to go for the Grade 3 on good ground but it just comes a bit soon for him. “He was a cosy winner on his debut but there wasn't much strength in depth to the race and it's hard to assess. “Hopefully he'll reach a better standard over fences. He was a bit disappointing at Punchestown over hurdles but we think he has plenty of ability." Nolan reported Far Away So Close none-the-worse after he crashed out on his chase debut at Limerick on Sunday. “He's fine. He was a little bit stiff but is an awful lot better today and should be fine by tomorrow. “He got a bit of a fright at the first and his jumping wasn't great afterwards. He should improve from that and will be better on better ground as well as going left-handed.” Gary Carson
