This weekend, all eyes will be on Paris as Longchamp hosts one of the biggest races of them all, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, alongside a host of other top-class contests. There is also plenty of good action to enjoy closer to home, with Blue Bolt looking to round off a fantastic season in style with victory in the Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket, while the promising Witches Familiar steps into Graded company at Gowran Park.
13:20 Gowran Park – GAUCHER (3/1 generally)
GAUCHER looks the value play despite having to concede 7lb. Willie Mullins’ seven-year-old is a proven smart hurdler, winning a Grade 3 at Tipperary when last seen over obstacles, and he arrives here in good form after two solid efforts at Group 3 level on the Flat at Leopardstown. He won this race last year, so it would be no surprise if this has been the plan for some time. El Cairos is the obvious danger and receives plenty of weight, but he has become a little disappointing and still has to prove he can see his races out strongly once the pressure is applied. Gaucher looks the more reliable option and is preferred at the prices.
15:05 Gowran Park– BLOOD DESTINY (11/8 generally)
It is a trappy little race, but marginal preference is for BLOOD DESTINY. Willie Mullins has won three of the last five runnings of this contest and his seven-year-old looks particularly well treated at the weights. He is rated 3lb higher than Fleur In The Park yet receives 6lb from that rival, which gives him a significant advantage on these terms. He was a smart winner of a competitive handicap chase at Galway off a mark of 150 in August and his latest run back over hurdles can be forgiven, with the longer trip on testing ground appearing to stretch his stamina. He should be much happier back over fences and dropping in trip, while he also has a fitness edge over Fleur In The Park, who is a Grade 1 winner, although that did look a rather weak race. It is also a big positive to have Paul Townend in the saddle in what could develop into a tactical contest.
SATURDAY SELECTIONS
13:20 Gowran Park – GAUCHER (3/1 Generally)
15:05 Gowran Park – BLOOD DESTINY (11/8 Generally)
*Odds correct at time of posting – 4:00pm Friday 2nd October
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Please note that although Matt has uploaded the tips, he is not our Racing Club Insider – the insider will remain anonymous!
