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Same again? Pairofbrowneyes goes for successive victories in Leinster National

Dounikos (near side) stayed on well to win the Grand National Trial at Punchestown
Dounikos (right) and Wishmoor (left) renew rivalry in Leinster NationalCredit: Patrick McCann

4.50 Naas
Toalsbet Bookmakers Leinster National Handicap Chase (Grade A) | 5yo and up | 3m | RTV

Pairofbrowneyes is seeking back-to-back wins in a race he won a year ago on his first start for Willie Mullins when the race was run over a slightly shorter trip at Gowran Park due to problems with the chase course at Naas.

The ten-year-old, the mount of Paul Townend, is one of three runners for Ireland's champion trainer who is also represented by the out-of-form Isleofhopendreams, runner-up in the Irish Grand National, and Bellow Mome.

Dounikos, one of three runners for Gordon Elliott, carries top weight having been raised 9lb for his win in the BoyleSports Grand National over a longer trip at Punchestown last month.

Davy Russell's mount will renew rivalry with the Joseph O'Brien-trained Wishmoor, who finished third in the Punchestown race. Rachael Blackmore partners the nine-year-old, who won two 2m4f handicaps over the course last season.

De Name Escapes Me, who was ruled out of his handicap engagements at Cheltenham due to connections disquiet at how he was rated by the BHA handicappers, represents Noel Meade and races off 10st, with Niall "Slippers " Madden on board.

The race is the feature event on Sunday's card, which is subject to a 7.30am inspection.

What they say

Gordon Elliott, trainer of Dounikos, Monbeg Notorious and Blow By Blow
All three are in good form. Dounikos came back to form last time and came out of the race well but he's got plenty on his plate with top weight after being raised 9lb for his Punchestown win. Monbeg Notorious hasn't recaptured the form he showed last season when he won the Thyestes and would prefer softer ground. Blow By Blow's last two runs were disappointing and we're just hoping he might fare better this time

Willie Mullins, trainer of Pairofbrowneyes, Isleofhopendreams and Bellow Mome
Pairofbrowneyes won the race when it was run at Gowran last year but he'll find it tougher as the ground won't be as soft and he'll be going left-handed this time. Isleofhopendreams hasn't performed so far this season and looks up against it while Bellow Mome has a lovely racing weight and should be suited by the ground.

Denis Hogan, trainer of Youcantcallherthat
I think she might have needed the run at Punchestown last time. She's in super form and we're looking forward to a big run.

Joseph O'Brien, trainer of Wishmoor and Vieux Morvan
Wishmoor was a good third in the National Trial at Punchestown. He's in good shape and seemed to enjoy the step up last time. We're hoping for another good run.

Vieux Morvan ran very well in the Paddy Power at Christmas before disappointing back in trip last time. Going back up in distance will suit and any rain would help as well.

Noel Meade, trainer of De Name Escapes Me
He's in very good form but he hasn't been the bravest over fences and will need to jump better and show more interest in the job.


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Tony O'HehirRacing Post Reporter

Published on 9 March 2019inPreviews

Last updated 17:54, 9 March 2019

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