Andratx bids for a five-timer at Downpatrick All eyes will be on Andratx in the feature at Downpatrick on Sunday, the Balloo Hire Centres Rated Hurdle. The Mark McNiff-trained gelding has been a revelation in recent months, winning his last four, with two of those victories coming over the course. He was successful on the level at the Galway Festival last week, and reverts back to hurdles now with Grand National-winning rider Derek Fox in the saddle. Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh team up with Timi Roli. This French import got off the mark over obstacles at Tipperary on his penultimate start, but since proved no match for Le Richebourg at Killarney. Time For Mabel has been knocking on the door of late, and he looks to have strong claims with Paul Townend in the saddle, while the consistent Petuna is another to consider. Skeaping has also been hitting the woodwork recently, and he might able to get the better of main danger Iolani in the opening Keeping It Country Concert After Racing With Richie Remo Maiden Hurdle. Gordon Elliott trains Skeaping, and he saddles Lilywhite Gesture in the 'Everyone Loves Downpatrick' Mares Handicap Hurdle. This daughter of Presenting looks to have solid each-way claims, with the in-foal Sharlanda and the Mullins-trained Blixt likely to be fighting out the finish. Mullins is represented by Special Ted in the concluding 'Your Name Here' Flat Race, and the German bred gelding can be expected to go close after being placed on his first three starts. The Trigger, who has won his last two over fences, should prove hard to beat in the Molson Coors Handicap Hurdle, while Mountain Rock and Mischievious Max are the stand-out names in the Armstrong Surfacing Maiden Hurdle. The Ivy Bar Newtownards Handicap Hurdle looks a more competitive affair with course and distance winners Bell Of The Ball, Aurora's Dream (won this race 12 months ago), and the 10-year-old King Of Aran a few for the shortlist.
