OPERA STINGER

Expert tipster gives his Punchestown verdicts

- RORY DELARGY

I SPOKE to Lorna Fowler at the DRF and she mentioned that she was looking for a good claimer for the final of this event as she had it in mind for FAIRYLAND OPERA (Nap) and I've kept an eye on the mares' progress since.

She ran very well to be runner-up in handicaps at Naas and Navan before bolting up in a lesser event at Tramore last time but didn't have to improve to win last time.

The manner of her victory was very impressive as she jumped and travelled supremely well before clearing right away at a track that would have been tight enough for her.

JP Shinnick was on board for her last two runs and looks an excellent match for this classy and well-bred mare from the family of Opera Hat. The handicapper has been lenient in raising her just 2lb.

4.15 - Channor Real Estate Group Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m7f192y