Bob Olinger absence leaves the door open for Ballymore second Gaillard

Grade 1 Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle | 2m4f | RTV/RTE2

Harrington hoping Bob can capitalise

There are few trainers whose horses come alive in the spring quite like Jessica Harrington and Ashdale Bob is one of four remaining runners after Bob Olinger and Decimation were taken out by Henry de Bromhead on Friday morning.

Harrington, who fired home a double on Wednesday, said: “I was expecting Ashdale Bob would give Bob Olinger a race at Naas earlier in the season but unfortunately he fell so that was that. We’re hopeful.”

Ashdale Bob: fell when taking on Bob Olinger at Naas earlier this seasonCredit: Patrick McCann

Ashdale Bob comes into this on the back of a fine battling victory at Fairyhouse on Sunday and Harrington is looking for a good showing.

She said: “He put up a good effort at Fairyhouse and the softer the ground the better. He appears to be in good form."

What they say

Willie Mullins, trainer of Gaillard Du Mesnil, Ganapathi and N'Golo
These are three nice horses and Gaillard Du Mesnil is our best chance. Ganapathi will have to improve a lot and we’re bringing N'Golo back to 2m4f with a hood on as he was too free last time.

Read more on day four at Punchestown:

4.15 Punchestown: talented Asterion Forlonge out to stamp his class on €80,000 handicap chase

5.25 Punchestown: superstar Honeysuckle out to cap perfect season with another Grade 1 masterclass

6.35 Punchestown: Billaway's the best horse in the race but will the busy season take its toll?

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