Timeform Irish SmartPlays: New recruit Back worth focussing on

Tipping / Timeform / 16 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Willie Mullins trains two of the Irish SmartPlays at Clonmel

"Back In Focus managed just two runs for Howard Johnson in Britain last term but looked potentially high-class when slamming Court In Motion by six lengths in a Grade 2 at Haydock"

Quite a trappy card at Clonmel provides the Irish action today but Timeform's Irish team have still got three more win bets lined up.....

Bishopsfurze is dropping back to two miles for the first time since making a successful hurdling debut early in 2010/11 in the minor chase due off at 14:35, but that is the only chink in his armour. A useful hurdler last term, he made an impressive chasing debut at Thurles in November and was all set to follow up when falling two out in a novice back there last time. He should have far too many guns for French import Tango Banbou and the ungenuine Action Master.

Half an hour later sees another likely favourite for the Willie Mullins team in the shape of Back In Focus, and he's another one who should be supported. He managed just two runs for Howard Johnson in Britain last term but looked potentially high-class when slamming Court In Motion by six lengths in a Grade 2 at Haydock, form that was upheld by the runner-up next time, before running as if amiss on much firmer ground at Aintree. Granted suitable underfoot conditions he looks sure to take all the beating, while the hope is that Dressedtothenines and Tofino Bay, both of whom are open to progression, will help keep his price reasonable.

Dun Masc (16:10) is a more speculative selection than the first two SmartPlays but his profile is certainly interesting. He held his form well on bad ground over hurdles in 2010/11, winning a maiden at Navan, and though his form over fences hasn't been up to the same level so far that is reflected in his mark. He's now back up to a more suitable trip and has run well both previous tries in cheekpieces, which are refitted here.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Bishopsfurze in the 14:35
Back Back In Focus in the 15:05
Back Dun Masc in the 16:10

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Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Ascot Chase issue is out now and features no less than six big-race previews and an interview with Alan King.