Stellar Story Shifts to Chasing in Fairyhouse Debut

Stellar Story, a Grade One winner of the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at this year's Cheltenham Festival, is set to make his chasing debut in Tuesday’s Irish National Hunt Steeplechase CLG Beginners’ Chase at Fairyhouse. Considering his pedigree and his seamless transition from hurdles to fences, it is difficult to envision this talented horse not making an immediate impact in this new arena.

Prior to making an impact on the racetrack, Stellar Story tested his abilities in the point-to-point arena, where his performances were characterized by a blend of potential and misfortune. After unseating his rider in his first outing, a race that was ultimately won by Corbetts Cross, the National Hunt Chase victor, he went on to secure victory in his subsequent point-to-point race, triumphing over Potters Party with notable ease.

In the early stages of his career, he experienced a loss in his initial bumper race; however, he demonstrated his real potential by securing victory in his next outing. He then made an immediate impact in hurdles, achieving success on his first attempt. As he transitions to chasing, a smooth round of jumping should enable him to leave a significant impression.

The main challenge to Stellar Story's first chase could potentially arise from his stable companion, Will Do. Although his second chase performance did not meet expectations following a strong debut, the addition of cheekpieces might help him improve enough to pose a challenge. If the headgear works as intended, he could provide Stellar Story with significant competition.

In the first race of the day, the Mares’ Maiden Hurdle, Cool Park appears ready to start her career on a positive note. Following an unsatisfactory first outing in a bumper at Wexford, she showed considerable improvement on her hurdling debut, moving up to three miles and securing third place behind World Of Fortunes, who went on to win twice thereafter.

In her subsequent race at Tramore, she performed admirably but was ultimately passed in the closing stages by the talented Savante. Despite the loss, she demonstrated sufficient stamina and determination to indicate that success is within reach in this competition. As a maiden in all categories, Cool Park stands to gain from weight allowances, placing her in a good position to capitalize on this chance.

Amboyna, having triumphed in a bumper at Tramore and then narrowly finishing second to a stablemate of Cool Park in her next outing, is certainly one to watch. As she makes her debut over hurdles, she may once again choose to take the lead, which could aid Cool Park in finding her rhythm and executing a more measured performance.

In the Fairyhouse Student Day Handicap Hurdle, Goodie Girl is aiming to capitalize on a strong victory from last month, marking her return after a significant break from racing. After achieving a convincing win following nearly a year on the sidelines, her ratings have increased, and she now competes at a higher level. Nevertheless, she is expected to continue improving, which gives her a solid opportunity to secure another win.