Willie Mullins has won 7 of the last 8 runnings of this race, in 2019 he didn't have a runner in this so really it's 7 from last 7. This year he has 3 runners, Bialystok looks the pick with OR of 139. Arctic Fly is improving but has a 4 lbs penalty to carry, and Williamstowndancer is rated only 125 and she is also carrying a penalty.
Bialystok is coming here on back of a disappointing run when beaten at odds on at Listowel just 11 days ago. While it's difficult to find strong excuses for that run, the winner was completing a hat-trick and looks progressive and the runner up also had good form. Interestingly, Bialystok was one of a number of odds on shots from the stable beaten at Listowel that week. They seem in better form this week with trainer/jockey combination landing a Grade 2 prize with their only runner yesterday and have a few good chances today.
Birdie Or Bust returns from 5 months break but was a very easy winner of a maiden hurdle on her last run over this CD, I see her as the main danger and one for the forecast spot.
There is a bit of risk involved with Bialystok because of last run but he had good form earlier that saw him finish a respectable 7th in the Galway Hurdle, and I feel he is worth another try as if he runs to his rating of 139 he should have a good chance.
Thanks Malcolm. Disappointing run from Bialystok to finish only 2nd. Market told a story, selection drifted to 11/4, the outsider of 3 Mullins runners backed from 16/1 to 15/2 to win.