Our Punchestown racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 1st May 2026. The action gets underway at 15:40 and runs through to 19:40, with going reported as YIELDING.
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Lossiemouth boasts a 100% strike rate from 3 runs at the track, Sean Cleary Farrell has been in fine form here with 5 wins from 15 rides, Ian John McCarthy’s yard sends out runners with a 25% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Punchestown
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Punchestown over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bettinggods.com | bettinggods.com | 11 | 7 | 63.64% | 63.64% |
| Lee Sobot | Yorkshire Evening Post | 20 | 10 | 50% | 80% |
| Mercury | Daily Post | 24 | 9 | 37.5% | 66.67% |
| Computeform | The Racing App | 16 | 6 | 37.5% | 87.5% |
| Luke Tucker | Cambridge Evening News | 14 | 5 | 35.71% | 64.29% |
15:40 – Stanley Asphalt Hunters Chase for the Bishopscourt Cup
Race Details: 2m 4f | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This looks a fair hunter chase rather than a deep one, and there’s a short-priced favourite in Hearts And Spades who will draw plenty of support after his recent third. Even so, he doesn’t strike me as bombproof at even money in a 13-runner field around Punchestown. Last Round brings the strongest recent profile on paper, with a solid rating, a big Topspeed figure and Gordon Elliott in his corner, while Squire Ohara is one of the few at a bigger price with enough substance in the figures to make him interesting. There are plenty here with patchy or missing recent form, which makes this slightly tricky, but it should still come down to who travels and jumps best rather than any hidden improver suddenly appearing from nowhere.
Top Selections
1. Last Round – 11/4 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr J M Halford | Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Form: 36-134 | Rating: 126 | Topspeed: 112
He makes most appeal. That recent form line of 36-134 is the most convincing in the race, and the combination of a 126 rating and a standout 112 Topspeed tells its own story in this company. Gordon Elliott doesn’t need introducing in these staying hunter-type contests, and Last Round looks the runner with the fewest questions to answer. He has been holding his form well and, unlike some of these, arrives here looking reliable rather than speculative. At 11/4, he’s not exactly hidden from the market, but he still makes more appeal than the favourite at the prices and holds strong claims if he gets into a decent jumping rhythm early. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Squire Ohara – 9/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr A Coonan | Trainer: Ian Patrick Donoghue | Form: 602-49 | Rating: 127 | Topspeed: 63
He’s the each-way angle in a race where plenty of the outsiders look outsiders for a reason. Squire Ohara has a workable profile for this sort of event, and that 127 rating is actually the highest on offer in the field. His recent form isn’t sparkling, but there’s enough there in the 602-49 sequence to suggest he can be competitive if returning to something like his better efforts. He’s also far easier to back at around 9/1 than the front pair in the market, and in a race lacking depth that looks a sensible each-way punt. If he jumps cleanly and travels handily, he has every chance of nicking a place and possibly more. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Last Round is the win play, as he brings the strongest current form and the best all-round profile for a race of this nature. Squire Ohara is the each-way option at a fairer price, especially with three places on offer. Hearts And Spades is the obvious danger, but at even money in a messy 13-runner hunter chase, he looks short enough.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Cowboy | 11/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Last Round | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 (Bet365) |
| Clonsast | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Dacman | 28/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Fr Gilligansvoyge | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Gethegoodtimesroll | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
| Heartbreak Weather | 11/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 11/2 | 7/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Hearts And Spades | 1/1 | 1/1 | 1/1 | 1/1 | 1/1 | 1/1 (Bet365) |
| Hey Sir | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Jetbob | 22/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Squire Ohara | 9/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Keenaghan Lass | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
16:15 – Uniquely Champion Hunters Chase
Race Details: 3m | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is a proper Punchestown hunters’ chase, deep enough to be interesting and with a few very solid form lines colliding. Its On The Line sets the standard on raw figures and is the obvious starting point, but he does arrive off a lesser effort and won’t get this all his own way. Panda Boy has been thriving, Wonderwall is far from dismissed, and Hunters Yarn has the profile of one who could easily get involved if keeping out of trouble. There are also live outsiders such as Lifetime Ambition and the lightly raced Cause For Comment. For all that, this doesn’t look an impossible puzzle. Class and proven stamina should count for plenty over 3m on yielding ground, and the market principals make most appeal.
Top Selections
1. Its On The Line – 3/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr Derek O’Connor | Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Form: 21-129 | Rating: 146 | Topspeed: 130
He is the class act on offer and, bluntly, the one they all have to beat if returning to his usual level. A mark of 146 is near the top of this field, the Topspeed figure of 130 backs that up, and his profile before that latest ninth was excellent. I’m inclined to forgive one below-par run given the yard and the fact Derek O’Connor is exactly the man you want in one of these big hunter chases. At 3/1 he is not a giveaway, but it still feels fair in a race where plenty of his rivals have questions to answer. If he gets into a rhythm early, he holds strong claims.
Bet: WIN
2. Lifetime Ambition – 16/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr J L Scallan | Trainer: P M J Doyle | Form: 2/3-32 | Rating: 138 | Topspeed: 121
He makes plenty of each-way appeal at a double-figure price. The recent form figures are solid rather than flashy, but that is often exactly what you want in this discipline: he keeps turning up, keeps running his race, and his 138 rating leaves him competitive in this company. The Topspeed mark of 121 says he still retains enough ability, and he doesn’t need to improve dramatically to hit the frame if one or two of the shorter-priced runners underperform. Doyle’s pair are worth respecting generally, but this one looks the better value than stablemate Hunters Yarn. At 16/1, he’s a sensible each-way punt rather than a wild swing.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Its On The Line is the straight win play because he has the strongest overall profile and the best piece of form in the race. For an each-way alternative, Lifetime Ambition looks overpriced given his consistency and staying credentials. The obvious dangers are Panda Boy, who arrives in good nick, and Wonderwall, while Hunters Yarn is another who could easily make the frame.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ambitious Fellow | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Asian Master | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Betfair) |
| Big Interest | 28/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Cause For Comment | 17/2 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Five Star Getaway | 40/1 | 35/1 | 35/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Hunters Yarn | 13/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Betfair) |
| Its On The Line | 3/1 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Lets Go Champ | 8/1 | 15/2 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Lifetime Ambition | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Now Where Or When | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Panda Boy | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 10/3 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Temptationinmilan | 80/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Wonderwall | 4/1 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Wrappedupinmay | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Ian Gaughran | Its On The Line |
| talkSPORT 2 | Its On The Line |
16:50 – Hanlon Concrete Irish EBF Glencarraig Lady Francis Flood Mares Chase (Grade 2)
Race Details: 2m 4f | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is only a six-runner Grade 2 but it still has a proper championship feel to it, with Dinoblue setting the standard and a couple of smart mares trying to make life awkward for her. Willie Mullins runs both Dinoblue and Spindleberry, and the market is telling you clearly which one is expected to do the heavy lifting. Dinoblue arrives on a four-race winning streak and her 177 rating gives her a firm edge on the figures, while Only By Night looks the most obvious threat after solid, consistent form in stronger company. Kala Conti has ability and a useful topspeed figure, but the recent fall is not ideal in this grade. It’s not a deep race, but it is a fairly straightforward one: if Dinoblue runs to form, the others are probably playing for places.
Top Selections
1. Dinoblue – 8/11 with Betfair
Jockey: Mark Walsh | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 1-2111 | Rating: 177 | Topspeed: 153
She is hard to oppose. Dinoblue has done very little wrong this season, the form string is rock-solid, and that official mark of 177 puts her clear of this field. In a small tactical race, class often tells, and she has plenty of it. Mark Walsh is a cool operator in these conditions and Mullins knows exactly how to place this type of mare at Punchestown. The slight niggle is whether a steadily run 2m4f turns it into a dash, but even then she has the pace and cruising speed to settle it late. At 8/11, she is short enough, but still the likeliest winner by some margin. Bet type tag: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Only By Night – 5/2 with William Hill
Jockey: Keith Donoghue | Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Form: 22-152 | Rating: 171 | Topspeed: 145
If you want to take on the favourite for value purposes, Only By Night is the sensible alternative. She is a reliable, high-class mare who usually runs her race, and that 171 rating says she belongs in this company. The recent second suggests she is still holding her level well, and Cromwell’s team are not shy about pitching one into a proper contest when they think she can be competitive. She may not have Dinoblue’s star quality, but she has enough class and consistency to pick up the pieces if the favourite underperforms. At 5/2 she makes more appeal as the value angle than some of the more speculative types. Bet type tag: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple here. Dinoblue is the win bet because she has the strongest recent profile and the clear edge on ratings. For an each-way punt in a six-runner race with two places, Only By Night is the obvious one to side with, as she looks the most solid option to chase the favourite home. Spindleberry and Kala Conti are the main dangers if the race turns tactical.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spindleberry | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Dinoblue | 4/6 | 8/11 | 8/11 | 8/11 | 8/13 | 8/11 (Betfair) |
| Kala Conti | 8/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Betfair) |
| Only By Night | 9/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 5/2 | 5/2 (William Hill) |
| Broomfield Bijou | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Sophia Rose | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 200/1 | 200/1 (William Hill) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Mercury | Dinoblue |
| Steve Mullington | Dinoblue |
| Lee Sobot | Dinoblue |
| racing-daily.com | Dinoblue |
17:25 – QuinnBet Novice Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Race Details: 2m 4f | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is a proper Punchestown handicap chase: deep, competitive and absolutely littered with plausible cases. Willie Mullins has flooded the race with contenders, headed by Funiculi Funicula, Ballygunner Castle and the well-treated-looking Kiss Will, while Shuffle The Deck brings the solid, dependable profile of a horse who keeps running his race in good company. Wingmen, Noble Park and Norn Iron add depth from outside Closutton, and there are enough lurkers at bigger prices to make this no straightforward punting heat. Over this intermediate trip on yielding ground, jumping and tactical position will matter every bit as much as raw ability. It looks a strong Listed novice handicap on paper, but also the sort of puzzle where value may sit just behind the obvious market leaders.
Top Selections
1. Funiculi Funicula – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Townend | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 34-321 | Rating: 147 | Topspeed: 141
He makes plenty of appeal in a race where not all of these arrive with clean, upward profiles. That latest win was a fair reward for consistency, and the overall sequence of 34-321 suggests a novice finally putting it all together rather than one who has already hit his ceiling. A topspeed of 141 stands up well in this company, and having Townend booked for a Mullins runner in a race of this nature is never something to shrug off. At 5/1, he is not exactly hiding from the market, but he still looks one of the more solid propositions in a field full of ifs and buts. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Noble Park – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Nico de Boinville | Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Form: -11631 | Rating: 147 | Topspeed: 139
Noble Park is the one at a double-figure price who jumps out as a lively each-way play. His recent form reads very well for this, with two wins in his last three completed starts, and that latest success suggested he is still progressing over fences rather than merely holding his mark. A rating of 147 leaves him right in the mix, while the 139 topspeed figure says he has the pace for a race that could get properly run. Henderson does not send many over for the scenery, and de Boinville is an eye-catching booking. In a 24-runner race paying five places, 12/1 looks a fair each-way punt. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Funiculi Funicula is the win play because his profile is the neatest and he looks less exposed than plenty of these. Noble Park is the each-way alternative at 12/1, with his recent winning habit making him very appealing in a five-place race. The obvious dangers are Shuffle The Deck, who is admirably reliable, and Ballygunner Castle, whose form gives him every chance if he puts in a clean round.
Live Odds Comparison
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Kieran McHugh | Al Kalila |
| Adrian Wall | I Am Lorenzo |
| Postdata | Kiss Will |
| Fortunatus | Shuffle The Deck |
18:00 – Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle (Grade 1)
Race Details: 2m 4f | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This doesn’t look a deep Grade 1 on paper, but it does contain a standout and a few interesting supporting players. King Rasko Grey sets the standard by some distance on a mark of 150 and his profile says he’s still going the right way for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend. Behind him, it gets much murkier. Jalon D’Oudairies has enough ability to get involved if bouncing back from a poor run, while Lord Byron brings smart juvenile form into open company and gets weight as a 4yo. Mullins also fields a small army including Kiely’s Place, who could improve plenty from just two starts. The favourite is hard to crab, so the real puzzle is finding what chases him home in a race where class should matter more than tactical trickery.
Top Selections
1. King Rasko Grey – 1/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Townend | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: /2-131 | Rating: 150 | Topspeed: 143
He is the obvious one, but obvious for a reason. King Rasko Grey has the best rating in the field, the strongest topspeed figure and arrives off another winning effort having already shown he can mix it in good novice company. The Mullins-Townend combination in these Punchestown Grade 1s hardly needs selling, and this horse looks the stable pecking order on the evidence available. At 1/2 you are not stealing value, but he has a fair bit in hand on the numbers and this step at 2m4f on yielding ground should hold no fears. If he runs to form, the rest are playing for places. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Lord Byron – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Harry Cobden | Trainer: Faye Bramley | Form: 24454 | Rating: 145 | Topspeed: 135
He’s not arriving in flashy form, but Lord Byron is more interesting than his recent figures suggest. A mark of 145 puts him second only to the favourite among those with published ratings, and as a 4yo he gets in with 158lb, which is no bad thing in a race lacking proven depth behind the market leader. His topspeed of 135 also says he has genuine ability, and if this stronger-run contest allows him to settle and travel, he could easily pick off some of the older novices late on. At 12/1, he looks the one for an each-way punt if you want to oppose the obvious forecast. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple: King Rasko Grey is the win bet and looks the most likely winner by a fair margin. For those wanting a bit more juice, Lord Byron makes appeal each-way at double-figure odds, especially with three places on offer. Jalon D’Oudairies and Kiely’s Place are the main dangers if rediscovering or improving, but the favourite is the one they all have to beat.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bon Viveur | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| King Rasko Grey | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/2 (Bet365) |
| Saint Baco | 14/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| You Proof | 14/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Echoing Silence | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Betfair) |
| Lord Byron | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Luke Tucker | Saint Baco |
18:40 – Boodles Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)
Race Details: 2m | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is a compact but classy Grade 1, and in truth it revolves around one mare. Lossiemouth brings a towering rating of 172, the best Topspeed figure in the field, and arrives with a profile that makes her very hard to take on over this sharp 2m. Golden Ace gets plenty of weight and has the class to make a race of it, while William Munny looks the solid each-way type if reproducing last season’s smart novice form. Mullins also runs Absurde and Anzadam, though both look up against it on the figures, while Wilful is an interesting British raider stepping into much deeper waters. It’s not the deepest Champion Hurdle you’ll ever see, but the standard at the top is still very high and that should decide it.
Top Selections
1. Lossiemouth – 4/11 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Townend | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 1-1121 | Rating: 172 | Topspeed: 160
She is the obvious one, but obvious for a reason. Lossiemouth is clear on ratings, clear on Topspeed and gets the handy mares’ allowance as well, so the rest have a proper task on their hands. That recent 1-1121 sequence tells its own story: she keeps turning up at the top level and keeps delivering. With Paul Townend booked for Willie Mullins, there is very little guesswork here; she has the class, the pace and the tactical versatility for a small-field Grade 1 around Punchestown. At 4/11 she is no hidden gem, but she is still the most likely winner by some margin. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. William Munny – 15/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Sean Flanagan | Trainer: Barry Connell | Form: /2212- | Rating: 157 | Topspeed: 144
If you want to play against the market without doing anything silly, William Munny makes plenty of appeal as the each-way alternative. He is not in Lossiemouth’s league on official figures, but a mark of 157 is still serious form in this company and his /2212- profile suggests he has been running consistently well in strong races. Barry Connell does well with this type and Sean Flanagan knows how to get one settled and finishing. In a seven-runner race lacking depth behind the favourite, 15/2 looks fair for a horse who should travel well and pick off lesser rivals late. He looks the percentage each-way punt.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it straightforward: Lossiemouth is the win bet and the banker in the race. If you want a second angle, William Munny is the each-way play in a field where only a couple look solid Grade 1 performers. Golden Ace is the obvious danger on weight-adjusted terms, but the favourite sets a clear standard and is hard to oppose.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Absurde | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Anzadam | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Glen Kiln | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (William Hill) |
| Wilful | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| William Munny | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Golden Ace | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (William Hill) |
| Lossiemouth | 4/11 | 4/11 | 4/11 | 4/11 | 4/11 | 4/11 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Ratings Hub | Lossiemouth |
19:10 – FRS Fencing Handicap Hurdle
Race Details: 2m | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is a proper Punchestown handicap in every sense: a huge field, plenty arriving with bits of form, and not many you could call bombproof. Spirou has obvious appeal after winning his first two hurdle starts, while Pioneer Pete comes here on the back of a deserved success and still looks on the upgrade. Gavin Cromwell fields the interesting pair Saveforarainyday and the 4yo In My Teens, and Willie Mullins is double-handed with Arslan and Lincoln Du Seuil. The shape of the race suggests a strong gallop over this sharp 2m, so travel and the ability to hold a position will matter. It is a tricky puzzle rather than a deep graded-level affair, but there are definitely a few progressive types lurking among the handicap regulars.
Top Selections
1. Spirou – 7/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Paul O’Brien | Trainer: Harry Derham | Form: 21/1 | Rating: 120 | Topspeed: 61
I like the profile of Spirou more than most here. He has only had three starts under rules, won two of them, and the latest success suggests there is still plenty of mileage in a mark of 120. In a race where lots of these have shown their hand, he is the one open to proper improvement, and Harry Derham’s runners tend to know their job in these competitive handicaps. The bare topspeed figure is hardly flashy, but that misses the bigger point: he has been winning rather than merely running well. At around 7/1, he looks the right sort to keep progressing through the ranks. Bet type: Win
Bet: WIN
2. High Court Cave – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr O McGill | Trainer: Noel C Kelly | Form: 070-21 | Rating: 125 | Topspeed: 108
High Court Cave makes plenty of each-way appeal in a race paying six places. He looked back in business when runner-up on his return and then built on it with a win last time, so the recent form line is much more persuasive than those older duck eggs. He is not thrown in off 125, but he does arrive in the right groove and this sharper test should suit if they go hard from the outset. The 10/1 with Bet365 is fair in a contest where solid recent momentum counts for plenty. He may not have the sexy profile of some younger improvers, but he looks a very sensible each-way punt. Bet type: Each-Way
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Spirou is the win play because he has the most convincing progressive profile in a race full of exposed handicappers. High Court Cave is the each-way option, with recent 2-1 form making him an obvious candidate to outrun double-figure odds, especially with six places on offer. Pioneer Pete and Arslan look the main dangers, while In My Teens is another who would not surprise if the market speaks strongly.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spirou | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Betfair) |
| Whimsy | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Saveforarainyday | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Arslan | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| High Court Cave | 10/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Spy | 12/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Betfair) |
| Positive Energy | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Tatateo | 33/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Teed Up | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Pioneer Pete | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Barrys Spirit | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Chichester Park | 10/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Betfair) |
| Nelson Muntz | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Betfair) |
| Our Uncle Jack | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Sonny May | 33/1 | 33/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Theflyingbee | 20/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Day Trader | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Withabitofluk | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Bridgehead | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Betfair) |
| Woodstream Lad | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Lincoln Du Seuil | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Avalo | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Our Lucky Lady | 20/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| In My Teens | 12/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Half A Chance | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Walhaan | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| The Irish Sun | In My Teens |
19:40 – Stables Restaurant Naas INH Flat Race
Race Details: 2m 2f | | Going: YIELDING | | jumps
This is a typically deep Punchestown bumper to close the card, with plenty of yards represented by horses who look capable of winning an ordinary race before long. Cityofblindinlites sets the standard on bare numbers after that promising debut second and it is no surprise he heads the market, while Premier Division and Thinkitdontjinxit bring solid placed form from strong connections. Heldam also has a very obvious chance for Willie Mullins after shaping with promise in a couple of runs. The difficulty is that this is not just about established bumper form; several unexposed types such as Denham Rock and Macdonagh Park could easily step forward. It looks a strong enough race for the grade, but not one where taking a short price is especially attractive.
Top Selections
1. Heldam – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr P W Mullins | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 63 | Rating: 112 | Topspeed: 94
Heldam appeals as the one with the right blend of proven ability and scope. His two runs have both hinted that a race like this is within reach, and that latest third was a fair step forward from debut. A rating of 112 leaves him with a bit to find on the very best of these, but in a bumper packed with runners I would rather side with the progressive Mullins horse than pile into a short-priced favourite. Patrick Mullins riding is an obvious plus in this sphere, and the 5/1 on offer looks fair because he shapes like this extra emphasis on stamina will suit. Bet type: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Largy Star – 14/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Mr D G Lavery | Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Form: 23 | Rating: 115 | Topspeed: 2
Largy Star makes plenty of each-way appeal in a race where a lot of the market principals are already fully exposed. He has finished second and third in his two starts, so the ability is there, and a mark of 115 says he is firmly in the mix on form. The age of seven is not ideal in these bumpers, but he has clearly found his level and this 2m2f on yielding ground should hold no fears. Gavin Cromwell knows the time of day with these types, and at 14/1 he looks overpriced compared with a few less solid rivals ahead of him in the betting. Bet type: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Heldam is the win play at around 5/1, a workable price for a Mullins runner who still has improvement in him. For an each-way punt, Largy Star makes more appeal than some shorter ones because his form is already solid and the 14/1 gives you proper value in a 23-runner field. Cityofblindinlites is the obvious danger, while Premier Division also commands respect.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajp Falco | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Cityofblindinlites | 7/4 | 13/8 | 13/8 | 13/8 | 8/5 | 7/4 (Bet365) |
| Colwyn Bay | 50/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Dark Eagle | 100/1 | 90/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Denham Rock | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Gonewild | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Heldam | 5/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Jukebox Charlie | 80/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Killultagh Fox | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Ladbroke Grove | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Largy Star | 10/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Betfair) |
| Lyrical Park | 66/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Macdonagh Park | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Muckanagh Lough | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Ned Hill | 18/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Premier Division | 10/3 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Betfair) |
| Rattledelatch | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Reckless | 18/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Thinkitdontjinxit | 7/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Tubberfinn Gordon | 125/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 125/1 (Bet365) |
| Delorean Dynamite | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Muted Melody | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Brian Flanagan | Cityofblindinlites |
| Farringdon | Largy Star |
Punchestown Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lossiemouth | 3 | 3 | 100% | 66.67% |
| Its On The Line | 3 | 3 | 100% | 100% |
| Dinoblue | 4 | 2 | 50% | 75% |
| Panda Boy | 6 | 2 | 33.33% | 33.33% |
| Port Joulain | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 33.33% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sean Cleary Farrell | 15 | 5 | 33.33% | 40% |
| Mr P W Mullins | 333 | 92 | 27.63% | 59.16% |
| Paul Townend | 656 | 174 | 26.52% | 61.28% |
| Mr J M Halford | 13 | 3 | 23.08% | 46.15% |
| Mr J R Martin | 5 | 1 | 20% | 20% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Punchestown:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ian John McCarthy | 4 | 1 | 25% | 100% |
| W P Mullins | 2025 | 485 | 23.95% | 55.95% |
| Barry Connell | 56 | 12 | 21.43% | 48.21% |
| Harry Derham | 12 | 2 | 16.67% | 50% |
| Emmet Mullins | 104 | 15 | 14.42% | 43.27% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Punchestown racing tips for Friday 1st May 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Punchestown today?
The first race at Punchestown on Friday 1st May 2026 goes off at 15:40, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Punchestown today?
The going at Punchestown is reported as YIELDING.
How many races are at Punchestown today?
There are 8 races on the card at Punchestown today, running from 15:40 through to 19:40.
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