Race analysis and trainer quotes ahead of a competitive novice chase

Irish Stallion Farms EBF Captain Christy Rated Novice Chase | 3m | RTV

The connections of all seven horses will be entitled to think they have good claims, such is this race's competitiveness.

If ratings are to be believed, the Gordon Elliott-trained Aforementioned would be the one to beat, but he is without a win in five starts over fences.

He brings some of the best form to the table, though, notably his second to winning machine Jerandme in a beginners’ chase at Kilbeggan earlier this summer.

While he may not be progressive, if he runs to his rating, he should be going close in a race of this nature.

Whatsyourtstatus is open to the most progression after an impressive win in a beginners' chase at Tramore a fortnight ago.

The form has since been franked and this seven-year-old could take another step forward given this is just his third start over fences.

If he does, he could be difficult to beat as most of his rivals appear to have shown their hand.

Gearoid O'Loughlin: 'He came out of Tramore very well.'Credit: Caroline Norris

Fred The Foot is a noteworthy challenger but will need to brush up on his jumping, while Touch Of Oscar is also interesting on a quick reappearance and a step up to three miles for the first time under rules.

The field is completed by Rueben James, Atlantic Shore and Ozzie's Way, representing last year's winning trainer, Denis Hogan.

What they say

Eoin Doyle, trainer of Rueben James
He won his beginners' chase well at Kilbeggan. There looks to be one or two good ones in this but hopefully he can run well. He was a little bit sore after Kilbeggan so he might come on for this run but we’re happy with him.

Gearoid O'Loughlin, trainer of Whatsyourstatus
He came out of Tramore very well. We're hoping the ground doesn't go soft for him and he won't run if it does. I think three miles will suit him well and his pedigree suggests that as well. We're happy with him.

John McConnell, trainer of Fred The Foot
He ran well the last day despite jumping a bit sticky. If he can improve on his jumping he should be competitive.

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