Beachdale Lad can prove how fences are a very different game to hurdling when he lines up against Rebel Fitz in an attractive novice chase clash at Killarney this evening.
Half a dozen others will line up for the two-and-three-quarter-mile feature but it’s not hard to see it as a head-to-head between the two big names who will both have their third stars over the big obstacles.
Over hurdles there wouldn't be a contest as the former Galway Hurdle hero Rebel Fitz would have over two stone in hand on ratings, hardly requiring the 5lb he gets from his rival here. But Beachdale Lad has been a revelation in two starts this summer, winning at Roscommon and Kilbeggan in a style that suggests he relishes his new game.
Rebel Fitz won easily at Ballinrobe last time but the impression Beachdale Lad has already made suggests he can put the more high-profile horse's jumping under real pressure.
Willie Mullins runs both Digeanta and Midnight Oil in the amateur riders event and preference is for the latter who should appreciate the drop in trip after running too free for much of the Ascot Stakes.
