He'llberemembered and Shane Butler after winning the Leopardstown Handicap Chase last year© Photo Healy Racing
Paul Fahey is hoping lightning can strike twice when he saddles last year's winner He'llberemembered in the BoyleSports Handicap Chase at Leopardstown.
Fahey, a farrier by trade, gained his biggest training success in the 100,000 euro contest 12 months ago and reports his charge in great order for a repeat bid.
The 12-year-old comes into the race having been awarded first prize on his last run over timber when Sadler's Risk was sensationally disqualified after a technical hitch.
He failed to shine on his previous chase start in the Troytown but was badly hampered early on then, while he did not handle the track in the Kerry National back in September.
The Blue Ocean gelding has a terrific record at Foxrock however, and off a mark just 2lb higher than last year Fahey is hoping for another big show.
"He's a year older but he seems as good as he was last year and we're really looking forward to it. He's in off a lovely weight so we have to take our chance," said the Nurney handler.
"Considering he won the handicap last year, to be running off only a couple of pounds higher isn't too bad.
"He ran in three chases this season and they were all top class. If we had been lucky to pick up one of them so be it, but if he didn't he'd drop a few pounds and we had this to aim at."
Foxrock looks sure to be a popular choice in the two-mile-five contest after a cracking run to finish second when favourite for the Paddy Power Chase at the venue over Christmas.
Ted Walsh 's charge drops back slightly in trip now, but the Kill handler does not see that as an issue and hopes he can show his love for the track again.
"He seems in good nick. He has 6lb more now which makes it a bit more difficult, but we had no other option other than the Thyestes next Thursday," said Walsh.
"The owner is from Foxrock and he's named after Foxrock, so this was the logical race and it looks more suitable for him.
"Obviously he stays well but he's comfortable over this trip and he handles Leopardstown well. He ran well in the Paddy Power and was third in a Grade One there."
Arthur Moore looks to have a strong hand in the race with three set to go to post for the Caragh trainer.
Nephew Peter Carberry travels home to take the mount on previous course winner Treat Yourself who also ran well at the venue when runner-up over Christmas.
The consistent Fever Pitch carries the JP McManus colours, while Troytown fourth Back Off Mate races from just a pound out of the handicap.
Moore said: "They've all been running well this season and they are all in good form. I would prefer better ground, for Back Off Mate in particular. I think we'll get away with it with the other two. Fever Pitch should be all right and Treat Yourself is OK on it.
"They are all healthy and well and we're looking forward to the race. Hopefully they pick up some of the prize-money."
