Grade One switch Arkle for Saturday

The Grade One Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase will be run at Leopardstown on Saturday

The Grade One Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase will be run at Leopardstown on Saturday. It was switched from its original Sunday date by Horse Racing Ireland yesterday due to concerns about forecast rain later this week.

The two-mile novice chase, which attracted half a dozen entries yesterday including the likely favourite Arkiva Ligeonniere, joins the Boylesports Hurdle card,with a Beginners Chase switching to the following day.

The Listed Solerina Hurdle, due to have been run at last Sunday’s cancelled Fairyhouse card, has also been moved to this Sunday at Leopardstown.

Pat Keogh, chief executive of Leopardstown, said: “We have made this decision early to give as much time as possible to owners and trainers to make their arrangements.

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“The decision was made to ensure that we were able to run the Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Steeplechase over the weekend. With all the uncertainty over the weather we have decided to err on the side of caution.”

Joining Arvika Ligeonniere among the Arkle contenders are Oscars Well, Twinlight and Burn N Turn.

Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor is the racing correspondent of The Irish Times. He also writes the Tipping Point column