Punchestown Power Plays! A Thrilling Day of Jump Racing – 20/02/25
Welcome to Punchestown, where the jumps are testing, the ground is soft, and the action is non-stop! With a stacked card featuring novice chases, staying handicaps, and top-class hurdles, today's racing promises big performances, betting value, and plenty of drama. Will the novice stars shine in the 13:25 Novice Chase, or will a battle-hardened stayer steal the show in the 3m3f Listed Handicap Chase? Keep an eye on Paul Townend, Rachael Blackmore, and Keith Donoghue, as they look to dominate. Get ready for a day of top-tier Irish jumps action! 🏇🔥💰
Coldjack
2/20/202514 min read
Hobbyist Trixie Strategy
Bankroll Status
19th to 25th January 2025
Starting Bankroll £30 (28 days)
Top Up to Bankroll £30 12.02.25
Wk 1 £35 Wk 2 £32.01 Wk 3 -£18.12
Wk 4 £30.31
WEEK 5 £15.83
Sun - £02.54
Mon - -£07.00
Tue - £01.67
Wed - £07.50
Thrs - £04.19
Fri - £00.00
Sat - £00.00
Note from Coldjack: A brutal day at the office just about sums it up. However, a couple of positives emerged that we can build on. There are better things ahead! I hope for far more when we go again!
Trixie @4 Lines
Release The Beast | Velvet Elvis | Duffys Hodey
Stake £4.00 (4 x £1.00)
Returns £120.95 Returned £NOWT
(Each Way) Patent @14 Lines
Jasko Des Dames | Prophets Corner | Rojuco Mac
Stake £3.50 (14 x £0.25)
Returns £142.90 Returned £3.31
Stakes £7.50 Winning £00.00 (P/L) losing £4.19
Modest returns for the 'Trickey Trixie'
Patent punting for the 'zsar bomba' of booms!
(1pt = £1 Pick Your Own Point Level & Runners)
🔎 Post-Race Analysis & Debrief – Punchestown (20/02/25)
Verdict: Brutal day at the office. Some hard-luck stories, a few near-misses, and a mixed read of the card led to disappointing returns. However, a couple of positives emerged that we can build on for tomorrow.
📊 Trixie Bet #1 – The Consistency Play (£4 staked, £0.00 returned)
💀 Total wipeout—not a single winner landed. Release The Beast and Velvet Elvis both underperformed, leaving Duffys Hodey irrelevant.
❌ 1️⃣ Release The Beast (13:25 Punchestown – 2m Novice Chase)
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: Looked progressive and had the best chase win form in the field.
🔹 Actual Result: Unplaced. Never looked comfortable in testing conditions.
🔹 Takeaway: Sprung a major leak in heavy ground. The Rule 4 deduction stung us as well.
❌ 2️⃣ Velvet Elvis (14:25 Punchestown – 3m3f Listed Handicap Chase)
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: Looked well-handicapped after a strong Thyestes Chase effort.
🔹 Actual Result: Unplaced. Never travelled well and faded before the business end.
🔹 Takeaway: The big field & deep ground didn’t suit. Should’ve put more emphasis on the race shaping up as a real stamina test.
⚠ 3️⃣ Duffys Hodey (16:25 Punchestown – 2m7f Novice Handicap Hurdle) (Irrelevant after first two losses)
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: Consistent & improving type. Looked primed for the step up in trip.
🔹 Actual Result: 2nd at 5/2 (Joint-Fav). Good run but didn’t land the win that would’ve mattered.
🔹 Takeaway: If the first two legs had won, this would’ve been a gut punch. In hindsight, should've been part of a Place-focused multiple instead of a Win-only Trixie.
📌 Key Trixie Learnings:
✅ Ground Conditions Hit Hard: The heavy, tiring ground punished speedier types.
✅ Win-Only Strategy Exposed: A 2nd place return = £0.00 in a Trixie. A Placepot play or more EW structuring could’ve mitigated this.
✅ Market Clues Ignored: Release The Beast drifted alarmingly late—should’ve been a red flag.
📊 Patent Bet #2 – The All-Ways Patent (£3.50 staked, £3.31 returned)
⚠ Salvaged a small return but no major payouts. The Each-Way focus helped prevent a full wipeout.
❌ 1️⃣ Jasko Des Dames (13:25 Punchestown – 2m Novice Chase) – Lost
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: Course form made him an appealing EW play.
🔹 Actual Result: Unplaced. Never landed a blow. Didn’t travel or jump with fluency.
🔹 Takeaway: Needed evidence of recent progression rather than historic course form.
✅ 2️⃣ Prophet’s Corner (16:25 Punchestown – 2m7f Novice Handicap Hurdle) – WINNER (5/2)
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: First-time in a handicap—expected to improve significantly.
🔹 Actual Result: 1st Place (5/2 JFav). Strong staying performance.
🔹 Takeaway: Spot on with the angle. Unexposed types getting ideal conditions should always be on our radar.
⚠ 3️⃣ Rojuco Mac (17:00 Punchestown – 2m NH Flat Race) – Placed 3rd (14/1)
🔹 Pre-Race Expectation: Charles Byrnes bumper debutant with market confidence.
🔹 Actual Result: 3rd at 14/1 (Paid £2.30 EW). Solid but never looked like winning.
🔹 Takeaway: Each-way angle saved this bet. Should increase EW exposure in these races going forward.
📌 Key Patent Learnings:
✅ Handicap Debutant Prophet’s Corner Was the Right Call.
✅ EW Play Stopped Full Loss. A Win-only Patent would’ve been a full loss—place money softened the blow.
✅ Market Moves Need Tighter Monitoring. The late drift on Jasko Des Dames should’ve been a red flag.
📊 Race-by-Race Review: Full Card Accuracy
❌ 13:25 Novice Chase – Wrong Call
🏆 Winner: Springt De La Mare (9/2)
📉 Our Pick: Release The Beast – Lost badly.
➡ Missed the improvement curve on Springt De La Mare, who is now 2/2 over fences.
✅ 13:55 Beginners' Chase – Called It Right (But Not Bet On It!)
🏆 Winner: High Class Hero (8/15)
📉 Our Pick: No bet (Odds Too Short).
➡ Correct assessment, but betting on a Mullins 8/15 shot isn’t the play.
❌ 14:25 Handicap Chase – Wrong Call
🏆 Winner: Fortunedefortunata (14/1)
📉 Our Pick: Velvet Elvis – Nowhere.
➡ The ultra-competitive nature of this race meant a higher price was needed.
✅ 14:55 Novice Hurdle – Right Call
🏆 Winner: William Munny (4/6)
📉 Our Pick: William Munny – WINNER!
➡ Straightforward selection. Favourite obliged.
✅ 15:25 Grade 3 Mares’ Hurdle – Right Call
🏆 Winner: Jade De Grugy (5/6)
📉 Our Pick: Jade De Grugy – WINNER!
➡ She outclassed the field. Good call.
⚠ 15:55 Maiden Hurdle – Missed the Value
🏆 Winner: Cardcounter (6/1)
📉 Our Pick: Dr Eggman (2nd at 11/10 Fav)
**➡ Overestimated Dr Eggman. He was turned over by an Elliott-trained improver at 6/1.
✅ 16:25 Novice Handicap Hurdle – Strong Read
🏆 Winner: Prophet’s Corner (5/2)
📉 Our Pick: Prophet’s Corner – WINNER!
➡ Spot on with the first-time handicap angle.
✅ 17:00 NH Flat Race – EW Return
🏆 Winner: Gameofinches (8/15)
📉 Our Pick: Rojuco Mac (3rd at 14/1) – Placed for EW payout.
➡ Each-way play worked but couldn’t get the win.
🔎 FINAL ANALYSIS: WHY DID WE STRUGGLE?
❌ MAJOR FLAWS IN OUR BETTING STRATEGY
1️⃣ Overconfidence in Recent Form Horses on Deep Ground. The testing conditions suited progressive stayers over “solid” form horses.
2️⃣ Not Enough Each-Way Cover in the Trixie. One place = £0.00. Patent’s EW structure at least brought some money back.
3️⃣ Underestimated Market Moves. Two major drifters (Release The Beast & Jasko Des Dames) ran exactly as the market suggested—poorly.
🔥 MOVING FORWARD: KEY TWEAKS FOR TOMORROW
✔ Focus More on Market Strength Near the Off. Major drifters should be approached with caution.
✔ Adapt to Ground Conditions. Speedy types struggled on testing soft-heavy ground.
✔ Adjust Trixie Structure. Move toward EW Trixies or 1 Banker + 2 Value Bets.
✔ Bet Smarter in Big-Field Handicaps. A 14/1 winner (Fortunedefortunata) in a huge field should’ve been our angle.
💡 Final Thought: Losses Happen – We Adjust & Go Again!
Tough day, but lessons learned. The ground, market, and over-reliance on "solid" form hurt us. But we found winners & each-way placers, proving our angles aren’t far off.
💰 Next up – we bounce back sharper! Who’s ready for tomorrow’s bets? 🚀🏇
Preracing Predictions
Trixie Bet #1: The Consistency Play
(Low-risk, high-probability picks for steady returns.)
1️⃣ Selection 1: Release The Beast (13:25 Punchestown – 2m Novice Chase)
Trainer: Paul Nolan | Jockey: Jordan Colin Gainford
Odds: 7/2
Recent Form: 🥇1st (Limerick, 17.7f, Soft)
Why: A progressive novice chaser who confirmed his ability last time with an authoritative win. He jumps well, travels strongly, and should improve further. This race is well within his reach.
Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆
2️⃣ Selection 2: Velvet Elvis (14:25 Punchestown – 3m3f Listed Handicap Chase)
Trainer: Gavin Patrick Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Odds: 9/2
Recent Form: 🥈2nd (Thyestes Chase, 25f, Soft)
Why: Massive run last time in the competitive Thyestes Chase, finishing second. The cheekpieces sparked significant improvement, and he’s well-handicapped here. The extra 2f should suit, making him a strong contender.
Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆
3️⃣ Selection 3: Duffys Hodey (16:25 Punchestown – 2m7f Novice Handicap Hurdle)
Trainer: P. J. Rothwell | Jockey: T. Power Roche
Odds: 6/4
Recent Form: 🥇1st (Punchestown, 2m3f, Soft)
Why: Won 3 of his last 5 races, showing great improvement. He relished Punchestown’s stiff finish last time, suggesting this extra distance will be right up his alley. Remains well-handicapped despite his recent success.
Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆
📌 Bet Type: Trixie (3 Doubles + 1 Treble = 4 bets)
📌 Expected Outcome:
2 winners → Stake recovery or small profit
3 winners → Strong profit
Trixie Bet #2: The All-Ways Patent (Higher-Risk Play)
(Picks with value at bigger odds but with some risk factors.)
1️⃣ Selection 1: Jasko Des Dames (13:25 Punchestown – 2m Novice Chase)
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: D. J. O’Keeffe
Odds: 6/1
Recent Form: 🥈2nd (Punchestown, 2m, Soft)
Why: Solid course form with two novice chase wins before finishing second last time. He concedes weight to some rivals, but his experience at this track makes him an intriguing each-way player at these odds.
Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆
2️⃣ Selection 2: Prophet's Corner (16:25 Punchestown – 2m7f Novice Handicap Hurdle)
Trainer: Sean Joseph Allen | Jockey: Mr D. Allen
Odds: 9/2
Recent Form: 🥉3rd (3 times in Novice Hurdles)
Why: First-time in a handicap, which is often a key improvement angle. Has been consistently placed in maiden hurdles and could step up significantly in this new race type. With a light weight and solid staying ability, he’s worth a bet at these odds.
Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆
3️⃣ Selection 3: Rojuco Mac (17:00 Punchestown – 2m NH Flat Race)
Trainer: Charles Byrnes | Jockey: Mr R. W. Barron
Odds: 15/2
Recent Form: Debutant, well-bred Soldier of Fortune gelding
Why: Byrnes doesn’t waste runs in bumpers, and this horse is bred to go well first time out. If there’s market confidence, he’ll likely outrun his odds.
Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆
📌 Bet Type: Patent (3 Singles + 3 Doubles + 1 Treble = 7 bets)
📌 Expected Outcome:
1 winner → Stake recovery
2 winners → Profit
3 winners → Big return
Final Thoughts & Betting Strategy
✔ Trixie Bet #1 (Low-Risk Play):
Focuses on consistent, in-form runners with minimal downside risk.
✔ Trixie Bet #2 (Higher-Risk Play):
Targets value picks with higher odds for potential big paydays.
📌 Staking Advice:
Higher stake on Trixie Bet #1 for steady returns.
Lower stake on Trixie Bet #2 to chase a bigger win.
🔥 Play both for a perfect balance of reliability & excitement across the afternoon!
💰 Let’s crush the bookies today! 🏇💰🔥
📌 Gamble Responsibly! Keep the wit sharp and the bets smarter—the universe still owes us all a winning streak! 😆🔥
Notes from AJ the Hobbyist: I'm waiting until much closer to off time to see which 'obby Picks (dropping Hs since the dog chewed my denture) are drifters or steamers, based on Betfair odds at the time of publishing and updated Timeform data.
Key Reminders:
Parading: Look for calm, focused horses with a good walk—avoid those sweating excessively or agitated.
Going Down: Smooth, controlled canter = positive. Overly keen or reluctant = caution.
At the Post: Composed behaviour signals readiness; restlessness, rearing, or sweating could be negatives.
Odds Market Sentiment:
Steamers (shortening odds): Positive market confidence, but watch for overbet favourites.
Drifters (lengthening odds): Could signal trainer/jockey concerns—or just market overreaction, offering value.
Keep emotions out—trust the data, the visuals, and the odds shifts. 🎯
Race-by-Race Predictions
🏇 Race 1 - 13:25 Punchestown (2m Novice Chase)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Release The Beast
Trainer: Paul Nolan | Jockey: Jordan Colin Gainford
Key Form: Confirmed chase debut promise when winning a 7-runner novice chase at Limerick (17.7f, soft) 56 days ago. Strong progression expected.
Why: A progressive type who has already proven himself in novice chases. His chase win at Limerick showcased both tactical speed and jumping ability. The form from that race looks strong, and with further improvement anticipated, he’s the one to beat. Market support around 7/2 suggests confidence.
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Springt De La Mare
Trainer: Gavin Patrick Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Key Form: Made a smooth transition to chasing with a strong win at Fairyhouse (16.3f) 35 days ago. First-time tongue strap applied today.
Why: Jumped fluently on chase debut and stayed on well. The Fairyhouse win came in a competitive field, and this horse is clearly on an upward curve. He looks set for further improvement and should be in the mix again.
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Waterford Whispers
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: M. P. Walsh
Key Form: Useful hurdler who ran 2nd in a strong Navan maiden chase in December before struggling in a Grade 1 at Limerick.
Why: Clearly talented but needs to bounce back from a poor Grade 1 effort. If he can recapture his Navan form, he has the ability to make the frame.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Jasko Des Dames
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: D. J. O'Keeffe
Key Form: Won back-to-back novice chases before a solid 2nd at Punchestown in December.
Why: Concedes weight all round, which makes this tough, but he’s a solid, battle-hardened type with good course form. If the market underrates him, he could be a sneaky each-way play at 6/1+.
🏇 Race 2 - 13:55 Punchestown (2m6f Beginners' Chase)
1️⃣ Win Selection - High Class Hero
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: P. Townend
Key Form: Promising novice chaser; 2nd on chase debut at Punchestown after an impressive hurdle campaign.
Why: A proven winner over hurdles who made an encouraging chase debut, showing class and stamina over 24f. With W. P. Mullins' excellent strike rate in novice chases and top jockey P. Townend aboard, he looks a cut above the field. Current market odds at 4/7 reflect his dominance.
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Loughglynn
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: S. F. O'Keeffe
Key Form: Consistent performer; 5th in a competitive novice chase at Navan (3m, soft).
Why: Although lacking a win over fences, Loughglynn has shown potential in his two chase starts. His solid effort last time suggests he’s improving and well suited to this trip. He’s the main threat to the favourite, offering value at around 4/1.
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Mint Boy
Trainer: Gavin Patrick Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Key Form: Fair chaser; improved at longer distances with a 3rd at Galway over 2m6f.
Why: Back up in trip after struggling over shorter distances. Mint Boy has proven stamina and represents a live each-way chance at 11/2. Expect a better showing over this more suitable distance.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Chigorin
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: Rachael Blackmore
Key Form: Runner-up at Fairyhouse on chase debut; struggled last time but remains capable.
Why: A lightly raced chaser who could surprise if he bounces back to his best Fairyhouse form. At around 8/1, he’s worth a speculative each-way bet, especially with Blackmore in the saddle.
🏇 Race 3 - 14:25 Punchestown (3m3f Listed Handicap Chase)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Velvet Elvis
Trainer: Gavin Patrick Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Key Form: Massive run in the Thyestes Chase at Gowran (2nd of 18, 25f, soft) with first-time cheekpieces, travelling strongly throughout.
Why: The cheekpieces transformed him last time, and a repeat of that big staying effort makes him the one to beat. He’s well-handicapped off 146, looks to have retained his enthusiasm, and should appreciate the stiff stamina test at Punchestown. A strong chance at 9/2.
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Favori De Champdou
Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Jockey: Mr J. H. Williamson
Key Form: Solid 3rd in the same Thyestes Chase at Gowran (3m1f, soft), staying on well.
Why: A consistent stayer who goes well at Punchestown and thrives in deep ground. The cheekpieces remain on, and while Velvet Elvis was better last time, this horse isn’t far behind and should be in the mix late on. At 8/1, he's a strong place contender.
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Will Do
Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Jockey: Sam Ewing
Key Form: 5th of 27 in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown (3m, soft) before a respectable 6th in the Thyestes.
Why: Still a maiden over fences, but has run well in top staying handicaps and should appreciate the extra distance. One for each-way backers at 5/1.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Kings Halo
Trainer: James Daniel Dullea | Jockey: Richard Deegan
Key Form: Impressive winner at Cork (2m4f, soft) last time, staying on strongly to score by over 3 lengths.
Why: Lightly raced over fences, and the step up to 3m3f could unlock further improvement. At 10/1, he’s a lively each-way shot for those looking for an unexposed stayer with upside.
🏇 Race 4 - 14:55 Punchestown (2m Listed Novice Hurdle)
1️⃣ Win Selection - William Munny
Trainer: Barry Connell | Jockey: Sean Flanagan
Key Form: Consistent performer, 2nd in two strong maiden hurdles at Fairyhouse and Leopardstown.
Why: Progressive type who has been knocking on the door in competitive races. Drops into Listed company with the most consistent form in the race, and should get his head in front this time. Odds-on at 8/11 reflects market confidence.
2️⃣ 2nd Place - C’est Ta Chance
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: P. Townend
Key Form: Debut hurdles winner at Clonmel; strong 2nd in a Navan novice hurdle.
Why: From a top yard and has proven ability at this level. Navan form reads well, and with further improvement expected, he should go close again. The main danger to the favourite at 9/4.
3️⃣ 3rd Place - The Great Nudie
Trainer: Colin Bowe | Jockey: Jordan Colin Gainford
Key Form: Two wins from last three starts, including a strong novice hurdle win at Punchestown (19.2f, heavy).
Why: Still improving and has already handled testing ground and Punchestown’s stiff finish. Likely to be staying on late and could sneak into the frame at 7/1.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Taponthego
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: M. P. O'Connor
Key Form: Winner at Tipperary; fair 3rd at Navan in January.
Why: Not without ability, and while others may have more class, he’s consistent and could run into a place if the main contenders falter. At 5/1, he’s worth considering for an each-way bet.
🏇 Race 5 - 15:25 Punchestown (2m4f Grade 3 Mares' Hurdle)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Jade De Grugy
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: P. Townend
Key Form: Proven Grade 1 winner at Fairyhouse (2m4f, heavy); only defeat was in the Dawn Run at Cheltenham.
Why: A standout in class and ability. She was exceptional when winning the Fairyhouse Mares' Novice and has been carefully campaigned. She gives away weight but should still have too much for this field. A worthy favourite at 8/11.
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Gaoth Chuil
Trainer: T. M. Walsh | Jockey: D. J. O’Keeffe
Key Form: Massive effort in Leopardstown's 3m handicap hurdle (2nd/25) last time.
Why: Brings a strong fitness edge and is arguably in the form of her life. This drop in trip suits, and she carries 12lbs less than the favourite. Could cause a shock if Jade De Grugy underperforms. Well-supported at 3/1.
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Lot Of Joy
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: D. E. Mullins
Key Form: Listed winner at Punchestown in November but struggled at Leopardstown over Christmas.
Why: Capable but not in the same league as stablemate Jade De Grugy. Best of the rest, but the market drift (5/1) suggests doubts about her bouncing back to form.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Aodhan May
Trainer: Charles Byrnes | Jockey: P. Byrnes
Key Form: Won 4 handicaps last spring; struggled over fences and now back hurdling.
Why: Back over hurdles after unseating and refusing to race over fences. Has ability but serious temperament concerns. 16/1 reflects the risk, but if the blinkers work, she could surprise for a place.
🏇 Race 6 - 15:55 Punchestown (2m3f Maiden Hurdle)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Dr Eggman
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: P. Townend
Key Form: Consistent in maiden hurdles but has yet to win.
Why: Despite not getting the job done yet, he sets the standard in this field with multiple placed efforts. 9-month layoff is a concern, but this looks his best opportunity yet.
📉 Best Price: 6/5
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Last Kingdom
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: M. P. Walsh
Key Form: French bumper winner but underwhelming in Ireland.
Why: Drops in class after contesting stronger races. If improving for the step up in trip, could push Dr Eggman close.
📉 Best Price: 5/1
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Youlita
Trainer: Charles Byrnes | Jockey: P. Byrnes
Key Form: Third in a Fairyhouse bumper, now over hurdles.
Why: Likely to improve on hurdles debut. Market support (7/2) is significant given the yard's reputation for well-prepared runners.
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Slieve Annilog
Trainer: Riceal Dunne | Jockey: Oakley Brown
Key Form: Promising hurdles debut over 2m4f (5th/9 at Fairyhouse).
Why: That effort suggested he will improve with experience. Worth a small each-way bet at 12/1 if looking for value.
🏇 Race 7 - 16:25 Punchestown (2m7f Novice Handicap Hurdle)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Duffys Hodey
Trainer: P. J. Rothwell | Jockey: T. Power Roche
Key Form: 3 wins from last 5 runs, improving with every start.
📈 Why:
Won comfortably over 2m3f at this track last time, suggests he’ll handle the extra trip.
Still well-treated off 111 given his improvement.
Handles soft ground well.
📉 Best Price: 6/4
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Prophet's Corner
Trainer: Sean Joseph Allen | Jockey: Mr D. Allen
Key Form: 3rd on all 3 hurdle starts, stepping into handicaps for first time.
📈 Why:
Consistently placed in maidens over similar distances.
First-time in a handicap—could improve significantly.
📉 Best Price: 9/2
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Misty Milan
Trainer: Declan Queally | Jockey: Philip Donovan
Key Form: Big step forward last time when backed into 9/2 and finishing 5th.
📈 Why:
Unexposed at staying trips.
Better than finishing position suggests last time—market confidence important.
📉 Best Price: 6/1
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Rue Taylor
Trainer: Paul Nolan | Jockey: Sean Flanagan
Key Form: 1st in bumper, then placed in novice hurdles.
📈 Why:
Handicap debut—could improve significantly off a low weight.
Trainer Paul Nolan often improves horses in handicaps.
📉 Best Price: 9/2
🏇 Race 8 - 17:00 Punchestown (2m NH Flat Race - Pro/Am INH Flat Race)
1️⃣ Win Selection - Gameofinches
Trainer: W. P. Mullins | Jockey: Mr P. W. Mullins
Key Form: Won his only completed point-to-point race, beating subsequent winners.
📈 Why:
Highly touted recruit to the Mullins yard.
Champion Bumper entry suggests serious ability.
Has been well-backed in the market, indicating confidence.
📉 Best Price: 9/4
2️⃣ 2nd Place - Cosmos D’ainay
Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Jockey: Mr H. C. Swan
Key Form: Won a point-to-point and cost £165,000 after four starts in that sphere.
📈 Why:
Highly regarded by Elliott’s yard.
Big-money purchase suggests quality.
Should go well if he adapts to rules racing.
📉 Best Price: 3/1
3️⃣ 3rd Place - Begorra Man
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Mr D. G. Lavery
Key Form: Strong 5th in a big-field Leopardstown maiden hurdle.
📈 Why:
Decent hurdling debut in a tough race.
Trainer does well in bumpers.
Likely to handle soft going.
📉 Best Price: 7/2
🎯 Wildcard Pick - Rojuco Mac
Trainer: Charles Byrnes | Jockey: Mr R. W. Barron
Key Form: Well-bred Soldier of Fortune gelding from a shrewd yard.
📈 Why:
Stable’s bumper horses need market attention.
Half-brother to a fair hurdler.
📉 Best Price: 15/2
🔎 Best Betting Strategy:
1️⃣ Gameofinches WIN bet (9/4) 🏆
2️⃣ Straight Forecast (1-2) Gameofinches & Cosmos D’ainay
3️⃣ Each-Way on Rojuco Mac (15/2)
"May you never be a penny short of a full wallet."
ChatGPT said:
Now that is a blessing I’ll gladly take! 🙌 May your accas always land, your favourites stay strong, and your pint never run dry on a good race day. 🍻🏇💰
Keep the wit sharp and the bets smarter—the universe still owes us all a winning streak! 😆🔥