1st - €7,380.00 2nd - €2,400.00 3rd - €1,200.00 4th - €600.00 5th - €300.00 Fine

FormscanBy Gary Carson - ALAMEIN ran much better last time in Gowran and if he can repeat that performance he looks the one to beat. He showed ability in bumpers, facing some stiff tests, and was a good winner when scoring at Thurles last March. His jumping debut proved a disappointment as he pulled up at Cork in October but he left that well behind when chasing home a decent sort in Au Quart De Tour last month. He kept the winner honest then, galloping all the way to the line, and on that form should be good enough to land this. He is taken to confirm placings with Automated, who was back in third then. That rival was making his jumping debut at Gowran so is entitled to improve and could be a danger now. Stuccodor is becoming a bit frustrating over hurdles. He certainly has the ability to win a race of this standard but just hasn't put it together over timber yet. He was beaten a long way by Nine Stiches at Thurles last time but on the pick of his form he's a threat. Thirsty Work stuck on well when chasing home easy winner Crafty Power at Fairyhouse last month. His form probably isn't as strong as those above but he's entitled to improve, having only his third start, and could be a player.%0A

A hurdle race for five yrs old and upwards, maidens at starting
Weights - 5-y-o 11st 11lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 12lb; Mares allowed 7lb;