Off the track for 429 days since winning a 2m novice chase at Punchestown in May 2018. Only 1lb higher than last Flat win over 1m5f in 2017 but every chance he needs this first run back.
Finished midfield here just two days ago behind Royal Admiral when clearly finding 1m3f sharp enough in a slowly run race especially from a wide draw. This trip more suitable and handicap wise he has place claims.
1m4f winner at Leopardstown has since finished third of 13 and fifth of 11 at the same venue over 1m5f. Won over 3m over hurdles so should really appreciate a true staying test here and is very much respected as a result.
Maiden, beaten 20+L in both starts in handicaps at Down Royal (1m4½f) and Limerick (1m) so far. Big improvement needed for this step up in trip and pedigree cast doubts he will stay.
Third in a 1m Limerick maiden remains his best effort and for all he often shapes like a stayer stepping up constantly in trip is yet to reap rewards. Goes up another 4f today and must improve for it.
2m4f Tipperary maiden hurdler winner returned to the level latest with a fourth of 16 over 1m6f at Tipperary where beaten 11L latest. Flat handicap form of 2017 says this mark within range especially if this longest trip to date suits.
Two years to the day since her last win over 1m3f at this meeting. Made favourite over 1m7f at Leopardstown but paid the price for failing to settle as she faded into seventh of 16. Handicap is in range but keenness a worry.
Son of Camelot unplaced in four races over 1m-1m2f so far but is half-brother to Group Two winners over 2m and 2m2f so this step up in trip is hugely notable and that alone may be enough reason to take a flier on him.
0-10 for this yard and is just 1-27 since departing Germany where he was trained early in his career. Few clues he is ready to strike in 2019 and new trip likely more in hope than expectation.
Non-Runners
1
(2)
Marine One54
Weight: 9-12| Age: 5
T: D Hogan J: K J Leonard
NR
Forecasts
Shoulda Lied (11/4), Dasmyhoss (7/2), Time For Mabel (9/2), Magen's Moon (5/1), Papal Count (8/1), Light That (11/1), El Tren (12/1), Castle Chase (12/1), Marine One (16/1), Sandaryann (50/1)
A more persuasive pedigree for stepping up to a staying trip for the first time than that owned by CASTLE CHASE simply could not be found as half-brother to three pattern class performers over 2m plus and he is worth chancing therefore despite showing nothing so far over trips at 1m-1m2f. Useful dual purpose performer Time For Mabel appeals as well enough treated and he should relish this real stamina test. Shoulda Lied catches the eye on his best 2017 Flat form for highly respected connections.