Via Mantua looks pick

Thurles Preview: There will be plenty of interest in the jumping debut of Via Mantua at Thurles this afternoon where the ex-…

Thurles Preview:There will be plenty of interest in the jumping debut of Via Mantua at Thurles this afternoon where the ex-John Oxx-trained filly has her first start for Philip Rothwell in the three-year-old maiden hurdle over two miles.

The Halling filly was a late starter during a short flat career for Oxx but two wins from two starts indicated that Via Mantua possesses more than a little talent.

A debut win at Galway was followed with a Gowran handicap success off an official mark of 77 and also left the impression of a horse rapidly on the upgrade.

It's significant she goes jumping so quickly after leaving the Curragh and her flat form gives her a clear edge over the Sligo winner Sonnium and the experienced Amidreamin.

Barry Geraghty has a potential lucrative Grade One weekend looming but that hasn't stopped the former champion jockey from taking on today's Beginners Chase with Albanov.

Two runs over the course recently suggest a race like this is well within the grasp of Jessica Harrington's runner.

The Michael Bowe team can warm up for Sweet Kiln's Hatton's Grace attempt with a victory for Earth Magic in the conditions hurdle.

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Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor is the racing correspondent of The Irish Times. He also writes the Tipping Point column