Paul Carberry's delayed return and Ruby Walsh's current injury problems have left gaps at the top end of the jump jockeys' tree for long periods this season, but no one can argue with how spectacularly well rising star Barry Geraghty has availed of the opportunity.
A superb Fairyhouse weekend brought his total for the term to 43, a full 15 winners clear of his nearest pursuer in the championship table, Jason Titley.
This afternoon's Thurles fixture may not have the quality of the weekend but the Templemore Maiden Hurdle looks the event that will take Geraghty on to the 44 mark, courtesy of the Michael Cullen-trained Kings Valley.
Starting favourite at Tramore last time, Kings Valley rather disappointingly gave best to Lisdoylelady but had previously had run an eyecatching fifth to Senanjar at Gowran and had picked up a bumper at Cork earlier in the year. The balance of that form looks to give Kings Valley a first-rate chance in this limited company, although Crystal Hills, a course and distance third to Coco Opera last time, and the consistent if luckless Gypsy Melody look the best of them.
The aforementioned Coco Opera attempts a third course and distance success in a row in the Cashel Rated Hurdle but slight preference is for Reggae Rhythm; while Paul Carberry can keep the process of keeping tabs on Geraghty in the championship table going with The Fox Inn, who can overcome a 10-month layoff in the handicap chase. Storm Ten drops back in trip for the beginners' chase after a second to Roses Of Picardy last time; and while today's two miles may be less than ideal, the Mullins charge does appear to have the experience to win it.
The first big handicap of the year 2000 will have a £100,000 prize fund after a £25,000 increase in the value of the Ladbroke Hurdle was announced yesterday. The 14th Ladbroke Hurdle will be run on January 8th and entries close next Wednesday.
Jamie Osborne was yesterday cleared by the Jockey Club to begin his training career next year at Kingsdown stables in Lambourn, formerly occupied by Mick Channon.
