THIS WEEKEND:THE SHAPE of Listowel's three-day meeting has already been altered to start tomorrow but the 24-hour deferral still hasn't prevented the need for a 4pm inspection this afternoon to see if racing can go ahead.
A waterlogged track means the card originally scheduled for today is now hoped to be run off tomorrow. Monday’s card remains unchanged but the original Sunday date is now due to be run on Tuesday.
Parts of the Co Kerry course were badly waterlogged during the week but improved weather conditions are increasing hopes that it can pass today’s inspection.
Even if it does get the green light, the going is sure to be testing but that shouldn’t be too much of a problem for Imperial Belle in the two-mile handicap hurdle. Joanna Morgan’s versatile sort failed to justify favouritism on the flat at Ballinrobe but a low weight will be a big advantage now.
Luke McNiff’s 7lb claim will be a big help to Big Boots in the opening maiden hurdle and Lady Roberta and Keith Clarke look a partnership to go close in the mares maiden hurdle.
Tomorrow’s other National Hunt fixture at Kilbeggan is likely to see quicker going and that will be ideal for Kirbybroguelantern who makes his second start over fences in the Beginners Chase.
Champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins gives no indication of slowing down his rate of winners during the summer and his Otay Kawn looks like being hard to beat in the conditions hurdle.Mullins will also fancy his chances in the bumper as Red Hot Poker should improve significantly from a debut fifth to Kilflora at Gowran.
