The 3:10 Punchestown QuinnBet Grand National Trial Handicap Chase promises to be a gruelling test over 3m3f on what is likely to be heavy ground. This race typically rewards stamina, sound jumping, and horses proven in testing conditions.

Strongest Contender: Velvet Elvis Velvet Elvis stands out as the most reliable contender. He produced an excellent performance when finishing second to Nick Rockett in the Thyestes Handicap Chase at Gowran Park, a race that often serves as a strong form reference for staying handicap chases. He travelled strongly, jumped well until the final fence, and was only outstayed by a potentially top-class winner. His official rating of 146 remains fair, considering that effort, and the cheekpieces seem to have brought improvement. Although there is a concern about his stamina beyond 3m1f, the combination of a proven ability on heavy ground, a top rider in Keith Donoghue, and a trainer in Gavin Cromwell known for preparing horses for these tough staying chases makes him the horse to beat.

Potential Value Pick: Bushmans Pass At around 9/1, Bushmans Pass could be overlooked by the market. He showed promise when fifth in the Thyestes, travelling well for much of the race and only fading late after a costly mistake two fences from home. He’s a proven front-runner who acts well on heavy ground and stays up to 3m. Although this is a step up in trip, his strong travelling style could see him get into a rhythm early and prove difficult to peg back if given an uncontested lead.

Other Notable Mentions:

Will Do was left poorly placed in the Thyestes but stayed on well late. He remains relatively unexposed over fences and could progress.

Ask Anything produced a solid effort at Punchestown last time, and with a useful 5lb claimer on board, could be another to outrun his odds.


Pace-wise, expect Cleatus Poolaw and Bushmans Pass to be prominent early, which could suit a strong traveller like Velvet Elvis who can sit just behind the leaders. With conditions likely to be testing, proven stamina and ground suitability will be crucial, and Velvet Elvis ticks all the right boxes.