2.45 3m. 174yds. 4 Declared. Finlay Ford At Naas Novice S'chase (Grade 3) of €28,500.00 5-y-o plus
1st - €17,100.00 2nd - €5,700.00 3rd - €2,850.00 4th - €1,425.00 5th - €855.00 6th - €570.00
FormscanBy Tom Weekes - LETSBECLEARABOUTIT concedes 6lb but has smart recent form and is dependable. Twice placed fourth at Grade 1 level over hurdles, he finished third in the Drinmore Chase last month and might improve stepping up to this distance for the first time over fences. Embassy Gardens was impressive in winning on chase debut last month and while a fancy for the Cheltenham festival, today's race is stronger than at Punchestown. He could be high-class but nonetheless his top-level hurdling form was disappointing and has, in the past, raced too keenly. Meetingofthewaters is suited by conditions and while he is progressive, steps up in grade having won the Paddy Power Chase rated 130. Desertmore House was 32 lengths behind in the Paddy Power and while 15lb better off, would prefer better ground. Sandor Clegane's chase career has yet to ignite but is fitted with a tongue-tie, stays well and likes testing ground. Cool Survivor was beaten 23 lengths by Embassy Gardens last month.
A novice steeplechase for five years old and upwardsWeights - 5-y-o 10st 7lbs 6-y-o and up 11st Mares allowed 7lbsPenalties - Penalties (handicaps excluded) - Winner of two steeplechases 3lb extra Of three steeplechases or a Grade 3 steeplechase 6lb extra Of two Grade 3 steeplechases or a Grade 2 steeplechase 8lb extra Of a Grade 1 steeplechase 12lb extra