3.10 2m. 6f. 150yds. 10 Declared. Total Event Rental (QR) H'cap S'chase of €16,500.00 5-y-o plus
1st - €9,900.00 2nd - €3,300.00 3rd - €1,650.00 4th - €825.00 5th - €495.00 6th - €330.00
FormscanBy Gary Carson - BALKITO weakened at the business end on his return over hurdles here in October but looks a better chaser and may be able to pick up the winning thread again. The Balko gelding won twice over fences in February and March last year and looked progressive then. Jack Hendrick got a good tune out of him for the first of those two victories and his 7lb claim is a big asset. Fakiera tops the weights for Gordon Elliott and Jamie Codd takes the mount. The eight-year-old has been knocking on the door and remains on the same mark as when fourth here on New Year's Eve. Notice To Close was all out close home when winning here at the New Year's Eve meeting but commands respect despite a 5lb rise for that short-head victory.
An extended handicap steeplechase for five years old and upwards (130 = 12st 4lbs)Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase after calculation of the handicap shall carry 7lb extra for each steeplechase won.Riders - Qualified Riders under I.N.H.S. Rules Top weight after the time of declaration shall not be less than 12st 4lbs and the minimum weight is 10st 7lbs