The inclement weather has almost completely decimated the racing on these shores but the Irish National goes ahead at Fairyhouse. Gordon Elliott has no less than 13 runners in the 30 strong line up with Willie Mullins running 4. Neither trainer has ever won this event and, while it is surely only a matter of time before one of them do so (that may very well be today), that particular stat whittles the field down to a more manageable 17. Further age related and performance stats whittle that down even further. Still i am not confident enough to pin my colours to any mast, so i've done a couple of (very) hopeful e.w. punts which, given that some firms are paying up to 6 places, may bear fruit.
Killaro Boy @ 28/1 and Westerner Point @ 50/1 - both tick many of the 'trends' boxes
Not decided yet Ken, but may have a look later. I had a sneaky regard for Elliot's "General Principle" when I looked at the field end of last week. Well enough weighted but his two main jockeys Kennedy and Geraghty have chosen other rides.
Good to see you stuck to your Principle, Togo (see what i did there?):-) One of mine pulled up, t'other was brought down. Watched the race and yours was just about the best swimmer. Many of the rest were treading water - literally - with just 8 of the field finishing. When they say it's heavy going over in Ireland, they really mean heavy!