In Excelsis Deo aims to make history in Tote Galway Plate

In Excelsis Deo aims to make history as a rare British-trained victor of the Tote Galway Plate this Wednesday.

It has been 16 years since Oslot secured victory for Paul Nicholls, with the only other horse to cross the Irish Sea and seize this prestigious title in the last half-century being Philip Hobbs' Amlah in 1998.

Trained by Harry Fry, In Excelsis Deo stands out as a top contender in the €270,000 race, having been specifically targeted for this event since claiming the Grade Two Silver Trophy at Cheltenham in April.

The six-year-old will wear cheek pieces for the first time and is one of four entries for owner JP McManus. He’s joined by Gavin Cromwell’s Punchestown Festival runner-up Perceval Legallois and a pair from Willie Mullins, Saint Roi and Janidil.

Frank Berry, racing manager for McManus, commented that Perceval Legallois performed well at Punchestown, indicating that this seemed the ideal race for him. He noted that Gavin is pleased with his preparation and acknowledged the highly competitive field, emphasising that luck is crucial, but Perceval Legallois is in good form.

Berry also mentioned that In Excelsis Deo had a solid performance in various strong handicaps at Cheltenham last season, and Harry is satisfied with the horse. He indicated that the ground would not be an issue and expressed optimism about In Excelsis Deo's chances.

Regarding Saint Roi, Berry highlighted that the horse put in a fantastic effort at Punchestown, where he missed a fence and got caught at the finish. He noted that Saint Roi arrives fresh and well, with both Willie and Janidil expressing confidence, although Saint Roi currently appears stronger based on form.

The prominent stables of Mullins, Gordon Elliott, and Henry de Bromhead have a strong presence, with Mister Policeman possibly being the standout of Mullins’ entries.

Elliott’s leading contenders appear to be Zanahiyr and Ash Tree Meadow, who have previously won over this course and distance. Meanwhile, Rachael Blackmore has opted for Lets Go Champ among de Bromhead’s contingent, which also includes Amirite, Toss Again, and Life In The Park.

Noel Meade, who celebrated victory in the Galway Plate with Road To Riches in 2014, brings two strong challengers: recent Mullingar Midlands National winner Idas Boy, and Pinkerton, who narrowly defeated Saint Roi at the Punchestown Festival in early May.