At The Races Bobbyjo Chase (Grade 2) Preview

Saturday’s Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse is a competitive affair in which a number of the entrants are on trial for the Aintree Grand National. Last years impressive winner Black Apalachi sets the standard,, and will relish the testing conditions. Dessie Hughes’ 11-y-0 destroyed a useful field in the corresponding event last year, before running a huge race at Aintree until departing at Bechers. Having had the benefit of an outing over hurdles over Christmas he should be fit and ready to do himself justice here.

Notre Pere is proven at the highest level and while he has been disappointing this season to date, he may have been feeling the effects of his early departure in Down Royal and each subsequent run has shown improvement. His latest nine lengths fourth to Joncol at Leopardstown is by far the best form on offer in the context of Saturday’s race.

Casey Jones and Vic Venturi are also on trial for Aintree, and the latter could well be a contender come April as he won the Becher Chase over the National fences last November.

In a race of this nature much depends on what horse has been laid out for the race as many are merely using it as a stepping stone to future engagements. For this very reason, it would not be a huge surprise if one of the lesser rated horses were to emerge victorious. However I feel Black Apalachi probably has this race as part of his plans all season and he can see off Notre Pere for whom this race is more than likely an afterthought.

Summary: Black Apalachi can follow up last season’s win with the high class Notre Pere looking his main danger.

Posted by John on February 19, 2010. Filed under Race Previews. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.