Gavin Cromwell triple-handed for valuable handicap hurdle at Killarney

Larkins Pub, Restaurant, B&B And Bakery Handicap Hurdle | 2m1f | RTV

Gavin Cromwell has an enviable hand in this valuable event with Ejayteekay and Darver Star, who have been good earners for the stable this summer, joined by potential improver Duchess Ravenwaves as the Champion Hurdle-winning trainer launches a three-pronged attack.

Darver Star was a wide-margin winner at Downpatrick this month but received a 14lb hike for the authoritative success, which leads Cromwell to the conclusion that Ejayteekay, who did not enjoy much luck in running in the Galway Hurdle, has a better chance at the weights.

He explained: “Ejayteekay is a fairly consistent mare. It didn't happen for her in the Galway Hurdle – she didn't get a run at all – but she's in good nick and I think there's a better chance of her running to her mark.

“I'm just not sure whether Darver Star can cope with his penalty for winning at Downpatrick last time but it remains to be seen. It looks like a big ask.”

On potential improver Duchess Ravenwaves, Cromwell added: “She’s in at the deep end here but Conor McNamara claims off her and, if she got proper soft ground, she could hit the frame.”

Jessica Harrington: represented by Galway third ConronCredit: INPHO/Oisin Keniry

The Jessica Harrington-trained Conron is another who has been mixing it over both codes. Runner-up in a competitive handicap hurdle at the Punchestown festival this spring, Conron ran a good race on the Flat recently at Galway but Harrington is excited to see what he can do back over hurdles.

She said: "He's in great form. We were delighted with his run on the Flat last time and we think the ground should be perfect for him here."

Eight-time winner and Grade 1-placed Tombstone heads the weights for Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud, who are also represented by the lesser-exposed Trainwreck, trained by Henry de Bromhead.

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