Thecompanysergeant well poised to make winning return to Graded company at Roscommon

Thecompanysergeant is poised to make the step back up to Graded company in the Ballymore Group Irish EBF Kilbegnet Novice Chase for trainer Denis Hogan having deservedly got off the mark over fences at Galway last time.

The seven-year-old was a useful hurdler, reaching a rating of 129 in Ireland, but he has kicked on over fences, finishing an excellent second to Mister Policeman at Thurles in March before being beaten six lengths into fourth by the smart Spillane's Tower in Grade 1 company at Fairyhouse.

He ran into subsequent Grade 3 winner Ashdale Bob at Kilbeggan before putting in an uncharacteristically indifferent jumping display when failing to reel in the reopposing Bowmore at Tipperary.

However, he made no mistake at Ballybrit, jumping fluently en route to a comfortable success, beating Merlin Giant by a length and three-quarters. He rates a solid proposition in this Grade 3, given he has solid form, stays the trip well and won't be inconvenienced by any rain.

John Ryan saddles Gaelic Arc, who is a typically durable type from the stable and put in an impressive display when defeating Dancing On My Own at Killarney in July.

The 2m5f trip back at Killarney stretched his stamina a touch last time, but he wasn't beaten far in fifth. He should ensure a decent pace and will not be easy to pass.

Bowmore ran a reasonable race when third at Killarney last time, but he didn't jump particularly well in a messy race. That was just his second start over fences so there could be more to come from him, and he has sound claims based on his Tipperary success.

Arctic Fly is a talented mare who won at Killarney last time out, but the forecast rain might not suit her. Similar can be said about Air Drop and A Law Of Her Own.

The weather forecast shouldn't, however, concern connections of San Salvador, who beat a fancied stablemate at Listowel eight days ago. He is getting the hang of things over fences and shouldn't be far away.

Going update

The going on Sunday was yielding to soft. There could be heavy showers on Monday, with the possibility of 8-12mm of rain before racing.

What they say

John Ryan, trainer of Gaelic Arc
He's in great form and hopefully has a great chance. He ran well at Killarney, but he's more effective over this shorter trip. Any rain wouldn't make a difference to him as he has form on all types of ground. I'm really looking forward to running him.

Denis Hogan, trainer of Thecompanysergeant
We were desperately trying to get into the Kerry National off a nice weight, but it didn't work out. We're in calmer waters here in novice company. Any juice in the going would be a help over this trip. He's versatile ground-wise as he's won on heavy and good.

Willie Mullins, trainer of Arctic Fly
The form of the beginners' chase she won at Killarney has worked out well. That was her chasing debut and with that experience behind her she has every chance of making it two from two over fences.

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