Ballymacarbry Beginners Chase

5YO plus | 2m 4f | 4 Runners | Turf

Duffle Coat^p¹⁹

Age: 7| Weight: 11-12| J: Kevin Sexton| T: G Elliott

Useful form when runner-up both chase starts in recent weeks. Looks Spanish Harlem's main threat on paper.

Form: 860-022

Fourbi⁴⁵²

Age: 9| Weight: 11-12| J: Shane Fenelon⁽⁷⁾| T: L Comer

125/1, stopped quickly after a further 6 months off when pulled up in maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse (20.1f, heavy) when last seen 15 months ago. Can only be watched on chase debut.

Form: 210/9P-

Spanish Harlem^t1⁴⁰

Age: 6| Weight: 11-12| J: A P Heskin| T: W P Mullins| OR: 136

Progressing gradually over fences. 5/2, good third of 6 in beginners chase at Gowran (20f, heavy) 40 days ago, keeping on under hands-and-heels riding. Tongue strap back on. Looks the one to beat.

Form: 22P-333

Walnut Beach⁷⁶

Age: 7| Weight: 11-12| J: Shane Fitzgerald| T: P J Flynn| OR: 122

Eleven runs since last win in 2022. 20/1, below form when ninth of 12 in handicap chase at Naas (16f, good to soft) just under 11 weeks ago. Up in trip.

Form: 223459

Forecasts

Spanish Harlem (5/6), Duffle Coat (13/8), Walnut Beach (6/1), Fourbi (66/1)

Willie Mullins' SPANISH HARLEM is progressing gradually over fences he can open his account in this sphere with a tongue tie back on for the first time since making a winning debut in France. The obvious danger is Duffle Coat, who has hit the crossbar on both starts over fences so far and may have to settle for another silver medal.