Can Mullins pull off the double? Punting pointers for the Irish Cesarewitch

Irish Cesarewitch Premier Handicap | 3yo+ | 2m | ATR

PUNTING POINTERS

Massive Mullins assault

Willie Mullins launches a seven-strong challenge as he bids to win this marathon handicap for the fourth time and complete a stunning weekend Cesarewitch double following Low Sun's success at Newmarket on Saturday.

Last successful with Laws Of Spin two years ago, the trainer for all seasons runs six dual-purpose performers – Sharjah, who was this year's Galway Hurdle winner, Nessun Dorma, Exchange Rate, Legal Spin, Makitorix and Peasure Dome – and they join Chelkar in the 25-runner line-up.

Leading apprentice Ben Coen partners Makitorix, while Billy Lee continues his successful Galway festival association with Nessun Dorma.

Topweight has Classic form

Stellar Mass, who heads the weights, finished third behind Harzand in the Irish Derby two years ago and will be bidding for a first win since landing a Group 3 at Leopardstown in August 2016.

The Jim Bolger-trained five-year-old will be tackling two miles for the first time.

Kiely connection

Veteran trainer John Kiely, who won the 2005 running with Clara Allen, is represented by Ancient Sands and Decision Time.

The Kiely link with the race goes back 50 years when Kiely's father, Matt, trained Arctic Serenade, the longest-priced winner in the history of the race at 100-1.

What they say

Willie Mullins, trainer of Chelkar, Nessun Dorma, Sharjah, Exchange Rate, Makitorix, Pleasure Dome and Legal Spin
Chelkar was very disappointing at Galway last time and has to prove himself. Billy Lee won on Nessun Dorma at the Galway festival and was keen to ride him again, which is encouraging.

Sharjah hasn't been showing the same sparkle on the Flat as over hurdles, so he'll need to step up. Exchange Rate is one who could be on the right side of the handicapper. Makitorix was disappointing over hurdles last time but his last run on the Flat was good and puts him in with a chance, with Ben Coen claiming a valuable 7lb.

Pleasure Dome has done well over hurdles for us and is having her first Flat run for the yard. She got plenty of experience when trained in England and the trip won't be a problem. Legal Spin probably has it all to do from 6lb out of the handicap but will like the ground if it doesn't turn soft.

Alan Fleming, trainer of Edelpour
He's in great shape, we couldn't be happier with him. The handicapper has given him a chance on his return to the Flat and the bit of rain they've had will be a help.

Aidan O'Brien, trainer of Cliffs Of Dooneen
He's had only the three runs and has already won over the trip. He seems in good form and we're hoping for a good run.

John Murphy, trainer of Brazos
Apart from not coming down the hill at Galway in July he hasn't run a bad race this year. He's in great shape and I'm delighted they're getting some rain. We're looking forward to a big run.

John Joe Walsh, trainer of Davids Charm
He's in good form and while he won over a six-furlong shorter trip last time, he has won over two and a half miles over hurdles, so the distance shouldn't be a problem. Ease in the ground would suit.

Tony Martin, trainer of Mr Everest and Newcross
Both are in good form and stepping up in distance. Mr Everest won over a mile and six on heavy at Listowel last time so any rain won't be a problem. Newcross has done well on his two starts for us. We're claiming off both of them and hoping they go well.

Pat Fahy, trainer of Western Boy
The ground was too fast for him last time, so we gave him a short break. Hopefully we have him ready to do himself justice.

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