Gary O’Brien: My Tips for Punchestown Day 5
The Irish horse racing broadcaster shares his selections for the final day of the Punchestown Festival
Saturday brings the curtain down on another spectacular Punchestown Festival, with a high-quality card featuring two Grade 1 contests to close out the Irish National Hunt season in style. Looking at the finale, I’ve identified several promising betting opportunities across the card.
2:30pm: Donohue Marquees Cross Country Chase (2m 7f)
The festival’s final day opens with the traditional Cross Country Chase over Punchestown’s unique banks course. This race requires a specialist, and ITS ON THE LINE (9/2) fits the bill perfectly. Bidding for a hat-trick in this race, he’s clearly in love with this unique challenge and has been specifically targeted at this contest again. While he disappointed at Aintree last time, his excellent Cheltenham Cross Country run when third shows his current wellbeing. The David Christie-trained BIG INTEREST is a clear danger following a facile win at Fairyhouse last week.
3:05pm: Colm Quinn BMW Handicap Chase (Listed, 2m 4f)
An ultra-competitive handicap where value is key. CADATHARLA (14/1) remains a maiden over fences but could finally break through here. Despite being winless over the larger obstacles after six attempts, this marathon test might provide the perfect platform for success. His trainer has been patient with this staying chaser, and the step up to a demanding trip for the first time could unlock his potential.
3:40pm: Coolmore Irish EBF Mares Champion Hurdle (Grade 1, 2m 4f)
The first Grade 1 of the day presents a fascinating clash, with last year’s brilliant winner returning to defend her crown. However, I’m taking her on with THE YELLOW CLAY (5/1) who has been a model of consistency this season. She impressed when placing in the Turners’ Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham behind The New Lion, and that form looks very solid. This trip is ideal, and she’s been kept fresh for this target. Last year’s impressive winner will be tough to beat, but my selection offers excellent each-way value.
4:15pm: Palmerstown House Pat Taaffe Handicap Chase (Listed, 3m 1f)
A proper staying test that always rewards a thorough stayer with sound jumping. PARK OF KINGS (14/1) catches the eye at a double-figure price. He shaped like the best horse at Leopardstown last time out when narrowly beaten, and crucially, the British handicapper hasn’t been too harsh on his rating. With one of the top conditional jockeys booked, he can outrun his odds in what looks an open contest.
4:50pm: Ballymore Champion Four-Year-Old Hurdle (Grade 1, 2m)
The standout bet of the day comes in this Grade 1 contest for juveniles. PONIROS (9/4) caused one of the biggest upsets in Cheltenham Festival history when winning the Triumph Hurdle at 100/1 on his jumping debut, but I’m confident that was no fluke. Willie Mullins’ former flat handicapper showed remarkable tenacity at Cheltenham, staying on powerfully to collar the market leaders despite some inexperienced jumping. There should be significant improvement to come from that experience, and he can confirm his superiority over his Cheltenham rivals who reoppose here.
5:25pm: SBK Handicap Hurdle (Listed, 2m 4f)
Another ultra-competitive handicap to solve. While several in-form contenders line up, I’m drawn to the progressive FINAL DEMAND (11/2) who looks to have been laid out for this valuable prize. He was very impressive when winning at the Dublin Racing Festival on soft ground, showing a potent turn of foot against good opposition. While he found The Yellow Clay too strong at Cheltenham, that form reads well in the context of this race. The slightly better ground should suit, and he still has untapped potential.
6:00pm: Lawlors Of Naas Pro-Am Flat Race (2m)
The penultimate race often features future stars from the Mullins and Elliott yards. In what could be a match between these powerful stables, RESPLENDENT GREY (8/1) appeals as having been overlooked in the market. This is a horse I’ve been slow to warm to as a chaser, with his jumping often proving his Achilles heel, but his raw ability is undeniable. His trainer has enjoyed a tremendous season and has targeted this closing-day opportunity.
6:30pm: Punchestown Charity Race
The traditional charity race closes proceedings, raising vital funds for organ donation awareness. While no betting selection is offered, it’s a wonderful initiative supporting an important cause.
Remember, always gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford.
