Paul Ferguson two selections from Galway for us on Friday; Risk Factor at 4.45 and Hallowed Star at 8.15. Compare odds and bet.
Hallowed Star (8:15) was a good winner for this column on his recent return to action at Tipperary, where he run out an easy nine length winner.
Since purchased by one of Shark Hanlon’s leading owners (who loves to have runners here at Galway), the five-year-old will be tough to beat in the concluding bumper, despite the penalty. The concern would be if the weather continues to deteriorate, as I’m sure he appreciated the better ground last time, so keep that in mind.
Earlier on the card, the opening maiden hurdle looks an interesting race, with the debutants N’Golo and Risk Factor (4:45) likely to dominate the market.
The former was a good winner on the Flat in France when last seen (third gives that form a good look) and he stayed on strongly that day, suggesting he has the stamina for jumping, but Risk Factor was a smart bumper performer and gets the vote. After finishing runner-up at this meeting, he won well at Leopardstown over Christmas (strong form) and returned there to chase home Appreciate It in a Grade 2 at the Dublin Racing Festival. He might need a longer trip in time, but he should like the ground, and he can strike for Joseph O’Brien.
Friday’s selections:
4:45 Galway Festival – Risk Factor; 11/8 bet365
8:15 Galway Festival – Hallowed Star; 6/5 Paddy Power
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