Getabird all primed to get back to winning ways says Townend

2.10 Gowran Park
Talbot Hotel Carlow Chase | 2m4f | 4yo+ | RTV

Jimmy Mangan thinks this chase could be mistaken for a Grade 1 and it is hard to argue with him.

The popular Cork-based trainer is represented by impressive Wexford winner Castlebrook, but he is under no illusions as to the magnitude of the task facing his mud-loving six-year-old.

Mangan said: "It's nearly a Grade 1. I was thrilled at Wexford. I thought I had him fit but the jockey thought he was only 70 per cent. He's a three-mile chaser in the making and he seems to have come on a lot since Wexford."

The market is likely to be headed by Getabird, who was sent off 7-4 favourite for the 2018 Supreme at the Cheltenham Festival and might have won a Grade 1 at Limerick last Christmas but for making a complete mess of the last.

Paul Townend hopes the son of Getaway can get back on track here. He said: "Getabird has always been a talking horse. He was supposed to be our Supreme horse a few years ago but he hasn't been the easiest to train. He didn't have a hard season last year.

"He seems well at home. Amy Morrissey rides him out every day and keeps him sound. She seems happy with him and it is good to get him back on the track."

The jockey added: "He's going the right way around anyway, he needs to go right-handed, so it looks a good place to start back again.

"Mengli Khan has the rating to win the race but his run at Down Royal leaves a bit to be desired and he can be a bit tricky. We are hoping the real Getabird turns up."

Getabird is one of two runners who won on their seasonal reappearance last year along with Mortal, who was a creditable fourth in the RSA Chase in March and is held in high regard by trainer Joseph O'Brien.

Mortal (right): second to Delta Work last yearCredit: Patrick McCann

O'Brien said: "Mortal is a good horse on his day. He seems in good form and we are hoping for a good run from him."

The highest-rated horse in the race is Mengli Khan with a mark of 154, but he arrives on the back of a bitterly disappointing effort at Down Royal. The quintet is completed by the 147-rated Paloma Blue.

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