Trainer Gavin Cromwell is well-positioned for the Guinness Kerry National at Listowel on Wednesday with both Flooring Porter and Perceval Legallois in his lineup.
The popular Flooring Porter made an impressive start to his chasing career at Cheltenham last October before returning to hurdles, where he finished second in his bid for a third Stayers’ Hurdle win at the Festival in March. Although he struggled on his return to chasing at Killarney in July, Cromwell believes he’ll be competitive in Wednesday’s €200,000 feature.
“Flooring Porter is in great shape. We’re very happy with him, and the ground should suit him perfectly,” Cromwell said. “Racing left-handed is a significant advantage for him. We’ve specifically prepared him for this race, so we’re looking forward to it and hoping for a strong performance.”
Perceval Legallois is also a key contender, despite finishing eighth as a 7-2 favourite in the Galway Plate in his last outing.
Cromwell noted, “Perceval Legallois didn’t have the smoothest trip in the Galway Plate after a slow start and having to navigate wide. He missed a couple of fences at critical moments, but overall, he ran well.
“With a clear run this time, he should have a good chance. The ground should be fine for him; the more rain, the better, but it should be okay as it is.”