4.07 2m. 7f. 11 Declared. Botanica International Opp. H'cap S'ch of €11,500.00 5-y-o plus
1st - €6,900.00 2nd - €2,300.00 3rd - €1,150.00 4th - €575.00 5th - €345.00 6th - €230.00
FormscanBy Tom Weekes - FOX LE BEL is a tiresome 29-race maiden and while today's race is an ideal opportunity, typically for a horse with his profile, the meeting is in doubt. Ten times beaten as a favourite, his recent form has been consistent, is suited by this distance and heavy ground, with today's race being winnable. Robinstown won easily at Limerick in January but that was an ordinary claiming race. He is rated 119 over hurdles but all three of his wins have been in that sphere and carries top weight. Veteran Mick Charlie is himself rated 10lb higher over hurdles and while well held at Thurles recently, had previously won at Clonmel and likes heavy. Mahler Appeal and Rochestown finished behind the selection at Navan in January while Joy Of Life was beaten a long distance over a longer distance at Leopardstown recently.
An extended handicap steeplechase for five years old and upwards rated 0-109Penalties - Winner of a steeplechase after calculation of the handicap shall carry 7lb extra for each steeplechase won.Riders - Confined to Professional Riders under I.N.H.S. Rules who have not lost the right to claim the allowance under Rule 52. Allowances - (which are not cumulative, up to and including 24th March) Riders who have not ridden the winners of 25 *races allowed...........4lb Those who have not ridden the winners of 40 *races allowed..........2lb No allowance under Rule 52 may be claimed *Including races under any N.H. Rules or Rules of Racing