Willie Mullins: All systems go as Blue Lord goes for Naas Grade One

WEDNESDAY RUNNERS, NAAS

BLACKBOW, ENEURGUMENE – 1.20

I need to get runs into Blackbow to get more experience into him. It’s effectively just his second run over fences after he fell at Leopardstown last time and it will be tough for him against more experienced horses but we have to do it as the season gets on. It’s a lovely chase track at Naas and I hope he can enjoy the experience.

Eneurgumene was very sharp at Gowran over 2m4f and if he can bring that jumping here he can be very competitive over two miles. I may as well find out now if he can be competitive at the trip and it’s a nice opportunity to do that. There are five fences in the last six furlongs so it’s a good chance for us to test whether he can be good enough over two miles.

BLUE LORD – 2.20

I’m very happy with Blue Lord ahead of the Grade 1 Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle. It’s a race that's been lucky for us in the past and I don’t think our fellow will mind stepping up in trip following his Punchestown win over two miles last time. He’s pleased me at home since that run.

CAPTAIN KANGAROO – 2.50

By Mastercraftsman, sire of Tolworth winner Metier, he disappointed at Punchestown last time and was very backward that day. He needs to sharpen up his jumping.

BELLE METAL – 3.50

She’s a nice Soldier Of Fortune mare and Paul’s sister Jody Townend takes a valuable 7lb off her. I’m looking forward to getting her out. It’s the first four-year-old bumper of the year so you don’t know what you’re up against but I’m happy with my mare.

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