2:50 Punchestown Tips

The 8-year-old made his debut for the Cromwell yard three weeks ago. He was well outpaced late on by the smart winner, but he did finish 2nd of 14 and was coming off a six-month break. He started the year off a 10 lb higher mark, and another 7 lb is taken off by a very good amateur jockey. He loves the heavy ground and looks set for a big run.

This horse won a PTP at this trip and has clearly been racing over too short a trip in her two runs under rules so far. The fifth of 21 last time out was over a mile shorter when she wasn't placed in the race and was never nearer. Those are the sort of comments associated with horses that are being lined up for a big run in a handicap over the correct trip, and it's blindingly obvious that she needs this trip.

Yoursimplythebest looks sure to enjoy this step up in trip today, judged on the last two runs over 2m 4f. The grey stayed on well in both, and the latest was here on heavy when 3rd of 21. Only young, and she has plenty of potential at this sort of trip. Was due to run here on 9th until meeting abandoned.

Some interesting prospects here. Walking In Mayo gets the vote, markedly upped in trip on handicap debut for Paddy Rothwell. Jockey Darragh O'Keeffe (profitable to follow on all runners this season) is booked. Form-wise, this 5yo mare by Walk In The Park won a maiden point by fifteen lengths ('kept on well', 3m, soft) in March 2025 and has since been either 'always behind', 'towards rear', or 'in rear' in four maiden races. While this might suggest to the uninitiated a pretty flaky racehorse, I will go with the Racing Post wisdom, which says 'can surely do better.' Market interest.

Rideau Canal is bottom weight here but not without a chance. Still going well as a ten-year-old, he was 5th of 21 on heavy here last month after a break since August. With similar conditions off the same mark, he should go close again. Conor Stone-Walsh retains the ride.

Still seeking a win after 25 NH runs. A notable 3rd place in a handicap hurdle at Limerick 23 days ago. Cheekpieces are back in play. She often places and thrives on heavy going, presenting excellent each-way value at 16/1.