TimHep94

Shannon Royale is undoubtedly a risky proposition given his profile over the past 15 months, but there are reasons to believe he could outrun his odds. His recent 7th over the banks offered a small sign of encouragement. If you look back to December 2024, his form reads much stronger. On that occasion, he won over 3m, beating High Class Hero (now rated 150 over fences), with the third, 12 lengths behind, now rated 143 ??" a notably strong piece of form. However, his subsequent record (P65P75P7) raises obvious concerns around consistency and reliability. As a result, his mark has eased to 130, which does give him a chance if he can rediscover his earlier level. His pedigree suggests this stamina test should suit, so while he has the class to feature, he comes with significant risk attached.

Uncle Pat looks a strong contender in the Ulster National. He steps up to 3m 4½f after a solid effort last time at Punchestown, where he finished 2nd over 3m 3½f, beaten just 5 lengths by a rival now rated 132. That piece of form suggests he doesn’t need to find much improvement to be competitive here. With stamina already proven over a similar trip and a mark of 125 looking workable, he appears well positioned. There’s also encouragement from his pedigree that further progress is possible at this sort of distance, which strengthens his claims.