TimeformBlog

Rock Critic might be favourite for the handicap over an extended mile at 15:00, but he really does stand out in a race where progressive types are thin on the ground. He's won on his reappearance in his last two campaigns and looked all set to develop into a listed-class performer last summer, winning a handicap at this festival by a wide margin before following up under a 5 lb penalty at Naas with any amount in hand. His last run was a little disappointing given what had gone before (seventh at Leopardstown), but he again travelled strongly and his subsequent absence suggests there was more behind that defeat than just his revised mark. Ted Dolly, Solent Ridge and Casela Park all have solid place claims but none have the potential of Rock Critic and he should be supported to add to Weld's already impressive tally.

Bideford Legend (16:10) looks to have plenty in his favour and should be clear favourite in the two-and-a-half mile novice hurdle just over an hour later. This versatile sort has been right at the top of his game so far this summer, winning a handicap chase at Killarney in May with plenty up his sleeve and then finishing second in a handicap hurdle at Listowel, looking sure to collect when sent for home before reeled in close home by another progressive sort. The drop back from three miles won't present any problems at all, and though Tavern Times does have the potential to improve now tackling this longer trip, he has plenty on his plate if he's to trouble Bideford Legend.

Teach Nua looks an obvious starting point in the 17:30 as he's potentially well handicapped, is well drawn and represents Dermot Weld. However, all that has been factored into his price so it could be worth siding with Denis of Kerry win and place instead. He too looks well treated on the pick of his efforts from earlier campaigns and his fourth at Bellewstown last time was certainly a step back in the right direction, travelling strongly for a long way in a first-time tongue strap but just found out by the trip (14f). This drop back to a mile and a half looks in his favour and his yard are in good form at present.

Recommendations
All at Galway
Back Rock Critic in the 15.00
Back Bideford Legend in the 16.10
Back Denis of Kerry win and place in the 17.30

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