LeopardstownWed, December 27, 2023

One of the feature handicaps of the Irish calendar. PANDA BOY (15) ended last campaign with a fifth beaten 7.75L in the Irish Grand National over 3m5f. Finished third in this contest last season and has big claims after two runs this campaign and now wearing first time cheekpieces. DESERTMORE HOUSE (9) is bidding for a hat-trick after winning the G3 Kerry National handicap chase over 3m. Has been raised 11.0lb for that effort but is stilling lightly raced over fences and can improve once more. GARS DE SCEAUX (24) returned from a 258 day break with a fifth beaten 14.25L in a conditions chase at Fairyhouse over 2m1/2f. Stepping up in distance for handicap debut and needs respect. MEETINGOFTHEWATERS (27) won on third outing over fences at Cork over 2m5f in a beginners race by 5.5L. Interesting going up on trip for first time in a handicap.