Thyestes out-takes

THE most recent piece of evidence suggests that the Goffs Thyestes Chase is still a class horse’s race these days.

Thursday’s winner Total Recall is a Ladbrokes Trophy winner. Driven through the fog to victory by Danny Mullins, Willie Mullins’ horse was the fifth winner in the last seven years to carry 11st 4lb or more.

The third and fourth horses, Minella Fair and Ex Patriot, may both be of interest going forward.

Minella Fair jumped his fences as well as he has ever jumped his fences and, while he couldn’t quicken from the third last fence, he kept on well to finish third. He could be even better over further.

Still a novice, Noel Meade’s horse could be a horse who is worth keeping in mind for the Irish Grand National.

You couldn’t say that Ex Patriot didn’t stay the three-mile trip, but he may still be better over slightly shorter.

Ellmarie Holden’s horse still looks progressive and, fourth in the 2017 Triumph Hurdle and a good fourth in a competitive handicap at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day this year, he could be a horse for the Plate at this year’s Cheltenham Festival.