The fact that the executive felt the need to call an inspection emphasises how firm the going is likely to be at Clonmel this evening. Watering has been going on but whereas such an outlook will be against many it should not present any problems for Tarbaan in the Cahir Maiden.
The Kevin Prendergast-trained colt ran a seasonal debut full of promise at Leopardstown last week when finishing runner up to the market hot pot Madame Lightfoot over a mile.
The favourite kicked and won the race early in the stretch and while Tarbaan was initially caught flat footed he was finishing best of all and the extra quarter of a mile tonight should be ideal.
The opposition does not look particularly strong although Limited Option may be the best of them. However, as a son of Nashwan, Tarbaan should be able to handle the ground and despite probably being a short price the Prendergast colt looks a good bet to win.
Most of the rest of the card doesn't immediately appeal as a betting medium but on the ground the Jason Titley-ridden Bishops Hill may be worth a small interest in the beginners chase.
Well beaten in a bumper at Gowran at the start of the month Bishops Hill should strip fitter now and has the virtue of having run second in a chase at Wexford last July on firm going.
In the Maiden Hurdle Conor O'Dwyer looks to have the form choice Purchasing Power. This one has smart form from last winter and although last on the flat at Leopardstown last month he should have the winning of todays' race.
The two handicaps look quite tricky but possibly Oranbay will appreciate the 21/2 miles of the handicap hurdle while Happy Gift's third over the course and distance last month indicate that the filly is at least in decent form.
Heffo's Army's saddle slipped last time and Eddie Lynam's three-year-old can reverse form with Mysterious Miss while in the bumper Simple Dolly is preferred.
