A competitive summer handicap hurdle brings together a mix of in-form veterans, progressive handicappers and returning improvers, with Wolf Prince setting the standard following an authoritative front-running success at Sligo just nine days ago. Aidan Melia's 10-year-old looked revitalised on his return to hurdles, making every yard despite a long absence from the discipline, and a 5lb rise may not be enough to stop him if granted another uncontested lead around Ballinrobe.
The chief danger could come from Fiveonefive, whose best efforts over hurdles suggest he is capable of being very competitive from this mark. His recent Cartmel run was respectable in a stronger contest, and the booking of Mark Walsh catches the eye. If reproducing his peak Irish form, he has solid claims of making the frame.
Spinola Bay is an intriguing runner for Gordon Elliott. He progressed well with consecutive handicap victories last season before finding novice company tougher than expected. Returning to handicaps looks a positive move, although the quicker ground is a slight concern. If handling conditions, he possesses enough class to feature prominently.
One of the more interesting outsiders is Dontgowithjoe, who returns from an 11-month absence seeking a remarkable hat-trick after successive victories at Ballinrobe and Bellewstown last summer. The handicapper has reacted with a 13lb rise, but he remains relatively unexposed and could still have improvement to come if fully tuned up.
Sir Allen is another capable of outrunning his odds. He returned from a lengthy break with a convincing Flat success before failing to fire over hurdles at Roscommon. That run may have brought him on, and a return to his best hurdle form would put him firmly in the mix.
Further down the field, Eye Contact has shown flashes of ability in recent starts and could outrun his price, while Space Warrior has become well treated by the handicapper after a steady decline in the ratings. Both have place possibilities if finding a little extra.
Verdict
Wolf Prince appeals as the most likely winner. His recent Sligo success suggested he has rediscovered his enthusiasm, and another positive ride from the front could prove difficult for his rivals to counter.
Fiveonefive and Spinola Bay look the principal threats, while Dontgowithjoe rates as the value alternative at bigger odds if returning in the same form he showed last summer.
Predicted 1-2-3:
1. Wolf Prince
2. Fiveonefive
3. Spinola Bay
Best Bet: Wolf Prince
Value Bet: Dontgowithjoe
Danger: Spinola Bay
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