Racing Post Novice Chase (Grade 1)

Off time: 14:20 | Winning time: 4m 13.60s

Any Second Now¹⁷

Age: 5| Weight: 11-12| J: Mark Walsh| T: T M Walsh| BF

12/1

Has finished second in his two starts over fences so far, which is good form but still puts him a long way behind the two principles here.

Form: 113U-22

Avenir D'Une Vie¹⁶

Age: 7| Weight: 11-12| J: Jack Kennedy| T: H De Bromhead

25/1

Off the mark over fences at Punchestown last time out when accounting for Grade 1 winning hurdler Saturnas. This requires a very big step up, however, and he came up short in Graded company over hurdles.

Form: 16P-6F1

Death Duty²³

Age: 6| Weight: 11-12| J: D N Russell| T: G Elliott| OR: 159

7/4

Dual-Grade 1 winning novice hurdler last season who disappointed in the big end-of-season events but is 3/3 over fences so far, including a Grade 1 at Fairyhouse last time. Faces a tougher opponent here in Footpad but very exciting prospect.

Form: 1U3-111

Footpad⁴⁴

Age: 5| Weight: 11-12| J: Paul Townend| T: W P Mullins| C| D

4/6

Very highly impressive on chase debut at Navan last time out when jumping superbly and winning well. This is tougher but should be capable of another big performance.

Form: 24243-1

Jett¹⁷

Age: 6| Weight: 11-12| J: R M Power| T: Mrs J Harrington| OR: 142| BF| C

25/1

Beginners Chase winner at Thurles last month but beaten at odds-on in a Grade 3 since and has plenty to find with the two leading contenders.

Form: 424-412

Forecasts

Footpad (4/6), Death Duty (7/4), Any Second Now (12/1), Jett (25/1), Avenir D'Une Vie (25/1)

For all money this looks to be between Footpad and DEATH DUTY. It was impossible not to be impressed with the former's performance when winning on chase debut at Navan last time out, but preference is for Gordon Elliott's representative. He has already shown he can cut it at Grade 1 level over fences, winning a top level (albeit weaker) race at Fairyhouse last time. He can put that experience to good use and maintain his unbeaten record over the larger obstacles. Avenir D'Une Vie, the other Gigginstown competitor, may be a distant third best.