I do love interesting horse names that help you to learn something. In the 12.35 at Leopardstown we have Cleatus Poolaw, named after the United States' most decorated native American soldier - Pascal Cleatus Poolaw. He fought in the 2nd World War, Korean War and Vietnam War and earned 42 medals and citations including the Distinguished Service Cross, four Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, as well as three Purple Hearts – one for each war.
Elsewhere on the card, Telmesomethinggirl is interesting back over hurdles, and fair play to Willie Mullins for pitching his 2 best Champion Hurdle hopes against each other in the Matheson Hurdle. But again a grade 1 has a woeful turnout of just 4 runners and its a real shame there isn't more competition in this division generally (it seems to be completely ignored by Gigginstown for example - they just don't seem interested in speedy horses?).
The best race on the card is the Neville Hotels Novice Chase and I really couldn't choose between the top 4 at the head of the market. A cracking renewal which could have a big impact on the Broadway Novice Chase market (surely the likes of Gaelic Warrior and Fact To File will be going to the Golden Miller?)
