1st - €13,200.00 2nd - €4,400.00 3rd - €2,200.00 4th - €1,100.00 5th - €660.00 6th - €440.00

FormscanBy Tom Weekes - WATERFORD WHISPERS was well held in a Christmas Grade 1 on his latest start but is capable on his day and finished runner-up in Cheltenham’s Martin Pipe Hurdle last March. The selection ran well on chase debut in December and while then well held at Limerick, was eased when beaten and is capable of much better. Springt De La Mare has a hurdles rating of only 118 and while a winner on chase debut recently, is it a concern that a first-time tongue-tie is applied. Rath Gaul Boy was hampered when last seen at Punchestown and debuts over fences against experienced rivals. Release The Beast steps up from his Christmas win while Jasko Des Dames lacks some of his selection-stablemate’s ability.

A novice steeplechase for five years old and upwards which at entry are rated 140 or less (also open to horses which at entry are rated 140 or less in hurdle races)
Weights - 5-y-o 11st 3lbs 6-y-o and up 11st 5lbs
Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase 4lb extra Of two steeplechases 7lb extra