Jump Racing Sunday 3rd February

[beaker1]

3:50 Punchestown – Michael Fitzpatrick National Trial Handicap Chase VESPER BELL is a classy stayer in the making and although he has to give weight all round, he is on a fair handicap mark and should run a big race. Runner-up in a grade one hurdle on heavy ground here last season, he has taken well to fences, running a race full of promise on his debut at Thurles, before winning very easily at Punchestown over three miles on heavy ground. I was so impressed with him that day as he travelled and jumped well throughout and the way he pulled clear effortlessly towards the end of the race, shows that he is potentially a very good stayer. After that race, Willie Mullins identified the four miler at Cheltenham as his spring target and the way he stayed on that day, shows he has plenty of stamina, so this step up in trip should suit. He is clearly the best horse in the race, but conceding so much weight is an obvious concern, but he is a well-built horse and looks capable of doing it.

[Aidymac]

Re: jump racing sunday 3rd febuary *Don Cossack > Punchestown 1:20 > WIN @ 11/10 VC BOG* Fell at the last when beat by Pont Alexander last time out. However, Pont Alexander is a special horse, and form behind that horse will turn out to be useful. Previously to that, was ultra impressive at Navan, winning by 9 1/2 lengths, won by 17 lengths at Fairyhouse the run before that, won a Grade 2 at Navan and won by 18 lengths at Naas the run before that. This is an exceptional horse, and if it runs to 80% it should win this in a canter. Is still lightly raced, and should be odds on for me.