A race named for the famous winner in 2019, though more often a weaker Grade 1 in the division, and that seems to be the case again this year, the two who fought out an exciting finish mid-140s performers over hurdles and not necessarily better than that over fences. The overall time compares quite well with the other chase on the card and it seemed to be well-run in what was deep ground, the finishing speed (from 2 out) around 100%.
MASTER MCSHEE (c146 here, 128+ previously) had lost his way as a hurdler after a promising start, reported to have bled on one occasion, but has picked up the thread as a chaser, following an encouraging third to Bob Olinger with a very useful and thoroughly resolute effort to land this good prize, held up last but in touch, creeping closer on the long run to the second-last and responding gamely to get up in the final stride. He should stay still further.
FAROUK D’ALENE (c146 here and previously) is proving reliable and ran at least as well as previously on what was his second outing over fences, never far away, leading travelling comfortably on the long run to 2 out, and running on well but nailed on the line, his jumping holding up well under pressure. He should win more races, at least kept away from the very best.
GABYNAKO (c113 here, 147+ previously) disappointed given how well he had done at Fairyhouse the time before, possibly not over those exertions and weakening tamely after taking 3 out a bit awkwardly. He has form on heavy ground but would be as effective back at 16f on it.
GLOBAL EQUITY (c105 here, 122 previously) was out of her depth somewhat and did not jump well enough when it mattered either.
LIEUTENANT COMMAND (c85 here, 137 previously) ended up inconsistent as a hurdler and followed a useful chase win with a poor display here, beaten 3 out, which is a long way from home here.
FIRE ATTACK (c120? here, 120+ previously) shaped better than unseating when well adrift at the last suggests, making most and dropping away only going to 2 out, just ahead of Gabynako when he departed. A 136-rated maiden hurdler, he should get to the same sort of level in this sphere.
