SECANT STAR is unlucky not to remain unbeaten in three starts as he fell when in a clear lead at Leopardstown a year ago in-between his victories in France and at Gowran in January. He's a horse of immense potential and looks the one to beat. Son Amix had a good chance in a Grade 2 at Navan yesterday so will obviously be difficult to beat if turning out here. Rick was well suited by 2m7f at Thurles so it's a surprise to see him racing over the minimum trip and though Asigh Pearl arrives in good heart after her victory at Fairyhouse on Wednesday she may find one or two of these a little quick for her.
Rick (FR) 9-2 (11-6) Tracked leader, keen hold, led before 3 out, strongly pressed approaching last, stayed on best run-in, won at Thurles 2m 6f hdl sft in Nov beating Oscar Time (11-1) by 1 1/2l, 6 ran.
Asigh Pearl (IRE) 16-1 (10-4) Mid-division on outer, 7th halfway, went 4th entering straight, headway to lead after 2 out, ridden and kept on well run-in, won at Fairyhouse 2m hcp hdl sft beating Fosters Cross (11-8) by 2l, 16 ran.
Whats On The Menu (IRE) 25-1 (11-12) In touch, 8th halfway, progress into 5th 3 out, 6th and no extra before last, 6th of 25, 6l behind Medical Card (11-12) at Naas 2m 3f mdn hdl sft in Nov.
Secant Star (FR) 2-5fav (11-0) Made virtually all, novicey jump 3 out, clear after next, not fluent last, stayed on well, easily, won at Gowran Park 2m 4yo mdn hdl hvy in Jan beating Capellanus (11-0) by 7l, 7 ran.
Son Amix (FR) 5-2 (11-4) Led, ridden and headed approaching 2 out, kept on under pressure without troubling winner, 2nd of 6, 3l behind Alaivan (11-7) at Naas 2m 4yo lst hdl sft in Nov.
