Limerick hoping for Fakir & Samcro rematch

Limerick Racecourse are hoping for a St Stephen’s Day cracker after the entries were revealed for the Matchbook Betting Exchange Novice Chase. 

Fakir D’oudairies and Samcro could renew their rivalry in the Grade 1 contest after meeting at Fairyhouse last month.

The pair looked set for a thrilling duel when Samcro fell two out, handing Fakir D’oudairies the race.

Willie Mullins is responsible for 13 of the 34 entries in the €100,000 contest — including Faugheen, Laurina and Melon.

Former Champion Hurdler, Faugheen made a winning start over fences at the age of 11 last month and would be a fascinating runner as he aims to prove as adept over fences as he was over hurdles.

The novice chase was elevated to Grade 1 status last year and was won by the Gordon Elliott trained Hardline who beat hot-favourite Getabird.

Punters believe that Gordon Elliot could win the race for the second year running with Samcro appearing at the head of the market.

Matchbook Betting Exchange, who sponsor the race, have a market up for the race with Samcro currently trading at 1.94. 

Patrick O’Callaghan, General Manager of Limerick Racecourse, said: 

“We are delighted with the calibre of entries for the Matchbook Betting Exchange Grade 1 Novice Chase on Stephen's Day. It would be great to see a rematch of Fakir D’oudairies and Samcro so soon after the Drinmore Chase at Fairyhouse earlier this month; add in Faugheen who has form here at Limerick and this could be the race of the season.”

Mark Brosnan, CEO of Matchbook said:

“We are thrilled to be sponsoring at Limerick once again and particularly in such a highly anticipated renewal of the Grade 1 Matchbook Betting Exchange Novice Chase.”