2:00 Punchestown Tips

Makes handicap debut over fences, having been backed into 5/4 fav last time. Is capable of much better now sent handicapping. He has been ridden with these handicaps in mind and is the NAP bet to get off the mark over the bigger obstacles here.

Lisnagar Fortune ran his best chase performance yet last time over course and distance in a Listed handicap chase when finishing in 3rd place. This looks an easier task despite a two-pound rise in his mark.

Ho My Lord was slightly disappointing last time when only fourth at Kilbeggan, having been sent off as a well-fancied favorite. That said, the switch to handicaps could bring about improvement, especially if he settles better. Still unexposed over fences and has potential to figure here and win or each-way claims if jumping well today.

Must Be Obeyed could well be in the mix. She has solid course experience and placed form at this trip. Yet to win at the distance, but she's not ruled out.

Has a nice little chance going by the recent Limerick win and 4th place last time in a hot handicap at Ballinrobe. Mc Kenna on board releases 5 lbs.

In Excelsis Deo had a fine 2022 and 2023 with Harry Fry but went off the boil last year, only beating one horse in his last four runs, which included a pulled-up and unseated rider. Owner J P McManus has probably said enough is enough and has moved the 7-y-o to Enda Bolger's yard. The stable is in good form of late with five winners and eight places from their last forty runners (four winners from the last ten). Jockey K E Buckley has been in fine form too with six winners and seven places from his last forty rides. I wish I knew the trainer's record with new additions, but if he can get In Excelsis Deo right, we could witness a resurgence. I'll never forget the horses 3rd of 11 at Cheltenham where he bounded up the hill, so I think he'll be well suited to Punchestown's gradual rise to the finish.Is TS and RPR top-rated on old form.