The two-day Down Royal Festival in Northern Ireland properly marks the opening of the Irish Jump season, and with a mix of exciting novices and experienced performers, it is the perfect indication of which horses to keep on-side at this early stage.
The feature is the Grade 1 Champion Chase on the Saturday, which has attracted seven declarations and will see Envoi Allen bid for a third success in the race.
Take a look at what we believe are the best bets for the weekend below, all featuring the latest horse racing betting odds from our sports betting website.
Written by Jake Wilkes
*All odds are subject to change
Friday 2:37 | Pick (1PT WIN) – Casheldale Lad (21/10)
I am one of The Yellow Clay’s biggest fans, but I will be taking him on in the Bottlegreen Hurdle with his stable-mate Casheldale Lad. Whilst The Yellow Clay was one of the most exciting novice hurdlers of last season, he produced all his best performances over further distance, and with some cut in the ground. He had a horrible fall last time out at Punchestown and has been off since, so they will be aiming to give him a smooth transition back to the track. Casheldale Lad is progressive and won a listed contest nicely last time at Listowel. He is race fit, will go on the ground and is improving, so it may just be the day he can beat his talented rival.
Saturday 12:25 | Pick (2PT WIN) – Kalypso’chance (TBC)
Kalypso’chance should take plenty of beating in the opening division of the Tayto Group Maiden hurdle. He is head and shoulders above rivals on the figures, and his listed win at Navan last season was one of the most impressive performances by a bumper horse. He wasn’t his best in the following two runs, but back from a break, he is an exciting hurdling recruit – and this looks the perfect opportunity get his season going.
Saturday 2:40 | Pick (1PT WIN) – Spillane’s Tower (5/2)
Winning the 2022 and 2024 renewals of this race, Envoi Allen evidently holds a big chance for Henry De Bromhead, and winning five of his six course starts indicates a strong showing is likely. But at the age of 11, could he be susceptible to a younger rival? It was a largely frustrating campaign for Spillane’s Tower last year, but he is talented, and I believe we are yet to see the best of this horse. His performance first time out in the John Durkan was impressive and he could still be improving. Found A Fifty jumps well and has progressed nicely over fences, but as he tackles three miles for the first time since his point days, he may be best watched.
Saturday 3:15 | Pick (2PT WIN) – Firefox (TBC)
The Grade 2 Kildress Plumbing Chase is all about Firefox and his seasonal return, before moving onto bigger and better things. His first season over fences was pleasing, despite only winning a Beginners Chase, but he was consistently running around a 148 mark and that should be good enough against this field over a two mile three trip. Gorgeous Tom and Croke Park both operate better over further and while Speculatrix is progressing, he has plenty to find on these terms.
When you choose NetBet Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at NetBet, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information. When the fun stops, stop.
