THURLES RESULT LOOKING SET IN STONE’

FOR National Hunt racing fans in Ireland, there is something therapeutic about Thurles on a Thursday.

- BY BRIAN FLANAGAN

The opening Beginners’ Chase is for horses rated less than 100 over hurdles and STONEYFORD LADY (1.30) must have a chance.

She's a half-sister to Champion Chase winner Captain Guinness and her trainer Henry De Bromhead (left) usually ekes out improvement in his horses going chasing. Her form is nothing special but none of her rivals have been pulling up trees either lately and in an open race best 7Ibs claimer riding at present and is a huge asset to her chances.

Staples also has claims on the John Ryan-trained SMALLCRAFTWARNING (2.30) in the 2m5f Handicap Chase.