With a weak pace forecasted, this 2m contest at Thurles could be decided by positioning rather than a flat-out stamina test. Front-runners or those racing prominently could be at a serious advantage, which is something the market may not fully reflect.

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🔹 The Strongest Contender – ADDED BONUS (15/2)

It’s not often you find a back-to-back winner of a race still lurking on a competitive mark, yet the market may be undervaluing Added Bonus.

• Won this very race in 2023 (off OR 85) and 2024 (off OR 79).
• Goes well at Thurles – Both wins came under Darragh O’Keeffe, who retains the ride.
• Trainer Brendan Walsh has landed this twice in the last six years – a clear target race.
• Ran a huge race two starts ago, hitting a low of 25% of his Betfair SP in-running before finishing second—suggesting he still retains plenty of ability.
• Pace Setup Favourable – Not reliant on a strong gallop and will be close enough to the action.

Crucially, this year’s race looks weaker than last year’s renewal, and despite a small rise in weight, he remains well-handicapped off 85 in a race where previous winners often repeat the feat.

With form, course record, and trainer intent all pointing in the right direction, the 15/2 on offer could prove generous.

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🔹 Market Overlooking – LAKE CHAD (25/1)

At a huge price, Lake Chad could run a big race if putting in a clean round of jumping.

• Timeform specifically highlights that he could be better placed than the favourite, Wee Charlie, given the likely steady pace.
• Likes a prominent position, which is a key advantage here.
• Trainer Philip Fenton has a solid record when sending out just one runner on the card.
• Error-prone, but his form at Tramore shows he has the ability at this level.

At 25/1, he could well trade significantly shorter in-running, making him a good back-to-lay option.

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🔹 Verdict

• WIN BET: ADDED BONUS (15/2) – Market is underestimating his course record, a proven race specialist.
• EACH-WAY PLAY: LAKE CHAD (25/1) – Needs a clear round but could be the biggest market sleeper in the race.

It wouldn’t be a surprise if Added Bonus hit the front early and ground this out from the front – just like he did two years running.