Paul Ferguson has one selection for us on Wednesday, Shrapnel in the 4.45 at Naas, ridden by Nina Carberry.
Wednesday’s domestic action is pretty average stuff, so for the day’s sole selection I’m heading over to Naas and the concluding bumper, which could be the race of the day with the future in mind.
Likely favourite Champagne Agent shaped well on debut, but failed to build on that and was actually one place behind Jessie Harrington’s Saluting last time, so there is reason to believe he could be vulnerable once again.
The one to take a chance on could be Shrapnel (4:45) who is a half-brother to dual Cheltenham Festival winner Weapon’s Amnesty and should relish the longer trip and, more importantly, the better ground.
Charles Byrnes’ five-year-old was backed as if defeat was out of the question on his rules debut in January, but was beaten a long way from home.
A good ground winner between the flags last April, the booking of Nina Carberry looks significant and she is 8 from 31 (26%) in bumpers at the track for the past five seasons.
Wednesday’s selection:
4:45 Naas Shrapnel
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Last year’s selections included:
Hurricane Fly: 3/1 winner of the G1 Rabobank Champion Hurdle
Copper Bleu: 12/1 winner of the Jewson at Cheltenham
Great Endeavour: 18/1 winner of the Festival Plate
Tranguil Sea: 11/2 winner of the Paddy Power Gold Cup
Sizing Europe: 6/1 winner of the Arkle
Weapon’s Amnesty: 10/1 winner of the RSA Chase