Triumph Hurdle heroes Farclas and Ivanovich Gorbatov go head to head over fences

7.40 Roscommon
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It is something of a rarity to find two former Triumph Hurdle winners facing off over fences – and even rarer for the scene to be at Roscommon on a summer’s evening in June – but Farclas and Ivanovich Gorbatov are set to go head to head in the two-mile novice chase on Roscommon's red-letter jumps card.

The two horses have contrasting recent profiles with Farclas, trained by Gordon Elliott and owned by Gigginstown House Stud, boasting a record of two from two over fences, whereas Ivanovich Gorbatov was less than convincing on his chasing debut at Ballinrobe two weeks ago.

Eddie O’Leary, racing manager for Gigginstown, admits Farclas, winner of the 2018 Triumph Hurdle, has caught connections by surprise a little in leaving his recent hurdles form behind since being sent chasing, and he expects a bold showing from the improving grey.

He said: “He looks to be a better horse over fences. I don't know what was wrong with him last season over hurdles but he's done well since we switched him to chasing. All going well, hopefully he's there with a big shout."

Gigginstown also run the Henry de Bromhead-trained Or Jaune De Somoza, with O’Leary adding: “He has cheekpieces on for the first time. He didn't go forward the last day at Wexford so hopefully the headgear will make a difference.”

Ivanovich Gorbatov has been hard to predict since recording his best day on a racecourse when landing the 2016 Triumph.

In fact, the Joseph O'Brien-trained seven-year-old had yet to add to that career highlight until winning a valuable handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse back in April.

However, judging by his chasing debut at Ballinrobe, he will need to find lots of improvement to trouble the likely favourite Farclas.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, said: "Ivanovich Gorbatov was a bit disappointing at Ballinrobe but, hopefully with that experience behind him, he can run a better race here."

Ivanovich Gorbatov: winner of the 2016 Triumph HurdleCredit: Patrick McCann

McManus is also represented by former Galway Hurdle winner Tigris River and Inca Gold.

Berry added: "Tigris River, who also disappointed at Ballinrobe, is similar to Ivanovich Gorbatov and hopefully he can be competitive.

"It's a big step up for Inca Gold, but hopefully he gets around safely and jumps well. It looks a good race.”

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