3.40 3m. 17 Declared. Race And Stay Leopardstown H'cap H'dle (Grade B) of €100,000.00 4-y-o plus
1st - €60,000.00 2nd - €20,000.00 3rd - €10,000.00 4th - €5,000.00 5th - €3,000.00 6th - €2,000.00
FormscanBy Donal Murphy - It's difficult to look beyond MAXXUM who made a mockery of his then mark of 120 when successful over the course and distance in December. The Westerner gelding went up 18lb for that 16-length demolition, with the rise somewhat offset now by the 7lb claim of talented conditional Cian Quirke. Gordon Elliott trains the selection and he is also represented by other leading contenders in the shape of Jungle Prose, Au Fleuron and Sam's Choice. The former rattled off four wins on the bounce before being put in her place when tried in a Grade 2 at Limerick over Christmas. Back in handicap company now and with Corey McGivern taking 7lb off, she can be expected to give a good account. Sam's Choice was successful on his handicap debut over the course in December and he may appreciate this step-up in trip. Market support for Hardy Bloke would be significant, although going on bare form alone he should struggle. Lucky Max, Blue Sari, Grozni and Perceval Legallois are others that warrant respect.
An extended handicap hurdle for four years old and upwards rated 0-150 that have run at least three times in hurdle races up to and including 22nd January 2023Penalties - Winner of a hurdle race or hurdle races after calculation of the handicap shall carry any penalty or penalties which may be allotted by the Handicapper.