Donn McClean: Impressive winners at the first Grade 1 races of the year
Grangeclare West won the Lawlor's of Naas Novice Hurdle at Na as a result of Paul Townend's choice between him and Champ Kiely. Champ was the favourite for the Royal Bond HURDLE at Fairyhouse last month. He was outshone by Irish Point. The low sun meant that the two hurdles that faced into the home straight were omitted. Envoi Allen won this race in 2020 and Bob Olinger in 2021. They both went to Cheltenham and won Ballymore Novices’ Hurry two months later. It's a logical target for Champ.
