1:15 Leopardstown – Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) – Analysis & Selections

The Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown has been a stepping stone for top-class stayers, and this year’s renewal looks highly competitive. With a very strong pace expected, the race should set up well for those with stamina reserves and a strong finishing kick.


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Key Contenders

FINAL DEMAND (15/8) – The One to Beat

Willie Mullins has dominated this race, and Final Demand looks like another potential star for the yard. He was mightily impressive on debut at Limerick, where he quickened clear in a fashion that suggested a lot more to come. The form has already been franked, and with Paul Townend booked (38% strike rate at Leopardstown), connections clearly expect another big performance.

Crucially, his run style should suit a truly run race, as he finished strongly last time and should relish stepping up in trip. His profile screams raw potential, and while he’s short in the market, it’s hard to argue against him.


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SUPERSUNDAE (11/2) – Solid Grade 1 Form, No Hiding Place Here

Another Mullins runner, Supersundae, brings a stronger formline into this than most, having finished second in the Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle (Grade 1). That was a well-run race, and he shaped like a stayer, so this extra distance could suit well.

There’s a slight concern that he might not have the same untapped potential as Final Demand, but he’s already shown he can handle this level, and his form is arguably the strongest on paper. The addition of first-time headgear suggests connections feel he needs a little extra spark, but if the pace collapses late, he’s got every chance of picking them off.


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WINGMEN (20/1) – The Sleeper in the Market

If there’s a horse underestimated in the betting, it could be Wingmen. He was third in the Lawlor’s of Naas, just behind Supersundae, and his jumping is still improving.

What makes him particularly interesting is that he’s already handled a strong-run Grade 1 and stuck on well despite a couple of mistakes. Given that Leopardstown often favours strong stayers in these races, he looks overpriced compared to some of the more unexposed types.

At 20/1, he represents strong each-way value, particularly if the front-runners tire late on.


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Final Thoughts & Betting Approach

With a strong pace expected, those sitting off the leaders should be in prime position late on. Final Demand has the most potential, but Supersundae and Wingmen both have form in the book at this level and should be right there at the business end.

Selections:

Win bet: Final Demand (15/8) – The most exciting prospect, should relish this test.

Each-way bet: Wingmen (20/1) – Proven in a strong-run Grade 1, too big a price.

Place bet: Supersundae (11/2) – Reliable and battle-hardened at this level.


If the expected fierce gallop unfolds, those with stamina and race fitness will have the final say. Final Demand looks top class, but at 20/1, Wingmen could be the one to outrun his odds.