Gusty Rocky winning at Tramore last year© Photo Healy Racing
Not surprisingly given the prize-fund on offer, the Chef Phelim Byrne The Ivy Room Handicap Hurdle at Wexford has attracted a full and competitive field.
There are some noteworthy types in contention for this two-and-a-half-miler, not least of which being Gusty Rocky
Pat Flynn 's well-bred representative is starting off now in this sphere on the back of a 202-day break, but hopefully he will be ready to do himself justice off what looks a reasonable mark of 119.
That rating certainly seems workable in the light of Gusty Rocky's Flat assessment, which stands at 80. Flynn has not had that many runners since his last winner, which came back in December.
It has been quite a time since Paddy Kennedy tasted success, but his 5Ib claim here looks a useful addition to Gusty Rocky's hopes. The King's Theatre gelding is taken to be at least on the premises for his owners the Flynn-family from Dungarvan, who have enjoyed many good days with their horses in the past.
Paddy Kennedy works for Jessica Harrington and the Kerry native has another possibility for his boss on Painted Lady in the Taghmon Handicap Chase at 7.05.
This Presenting mare is a super jumper, and now could well be the time to catch the six-year-old, fresh off a break since the Leopardstown Christmas Festival. It may be that the selection will enjoy the better ground, as she impressed on good going at Fairyhouse in October.
Two events where the mares have the stage to themselves could be worthy of attention from punters. The first, the Black Point Mares Beginners Chase, might go the way of The Conker Club a faller at the last when at least booked for a place at Clonmel last time.
The finale, meanwhile, the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Mares Flat Race, will see market reference all important with so many newcomers. However, Idee Emery has plenty going for her on paper and she could be the one.
