Thus, our tips for Day 1:
1.30 National Hunt Chase
Abbeybraney (8/1)
Tinakellylad is in the running here – the poor horse sounds it’s been named after some Kilburn transvestite from the 1950’s – but our tip here is Abbeybraney. Googlemaps tells us that Abbeybraney is a townland near Fairyhouse, which is Irish enough for us.
2.05 Neptune Novice Hurdle
Finian’s Rainbow (6/1)
Does paddywhackery get any more intense than naming a horse after a musical that features characters like Finian McLonergan, Woody Mahony, Susan The Silent and Og, a dastardly leprechaun. The spirit of paddywhackery behind this horse should help it romp home.
2.40 RSA Chase
Chasing Cars (66/1)
The obvious paddywhackery line here is to pick Punchestowns. And sure, south Dublin race courses inspire a certain fondness, but far more tantalizing is an outside each way bet here on Chasing Cars, the title of that soppy sentimental Snow Patrol song. It’s the ‘Town I Loved So Well’ for Tiger emigrants.
3.20 Champion Chase
Forpaddydeplasterer (10/1)
This one picks itself. When the chips are down, go in for the dig out with one of Bertie’s lovable rogue friends.
4.00 Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle
On Raglan Road (14/1)
Finally, a report on Day 1. Captain Cee Bee burst a blood vessel, Casey Jones was sent to the glue factory and only Khyber Kim placed. We’re hoping for better luck today.
