ALL ABOUT ALF IN TREATY CUP SEMIS

Peter Farrell

Aside from the TIME action on offer at Limerick, the semi finals of the Treaty Cup Open 350 are also on offer and if last week's performances are anything to go on, patrons will be treated to some special two-bend action.

Of course, Ballinakill Alf was imperious as he dismantled a fine field to win by ten lengths in record-breaking fashion last Saturday night and he will surely go to traps as one of the shortest priced favourites of the weekend as a result. Posting a sensational 18.22 on that occasion, ‘Alf’ took a flier from five, which we don’t often see, and the writing was on the wall thereafter with all eyes turning to the clock. Trained by Graham Holland for the Pillar-Syndicate, the son of Pestana goes from four this time around and it would be an almighty shock if he was to make any slip-ups. Of his rivals, In A Lifetime re-opposes and looks the most likely to follow Alf home yet again. Trained by Pat O’Connor, he occupies the striped jacket once again as the sole wide runner and he should make the frame with a similar showing to last weekend. Of the others, Burgess Supreme missed the kick last time out but clearly has the ability to go much better with a sharper exit from five, while Aherla Leo won his opening round assignment in 18.96 and will no doubt improve from his first race over the sprint trip.

HURRICANE TO ROAR

In the second semi final, Hope Hurricane can get back to winning ways for Pat Buckley and Amanda Jeal.

One of the best two-bend runners in the land, Hopes Hurricane suffered a shock defeat in the opening round, however, he didn’t come away as fluently as he can on that occasion. Drawn in five, the son of Newinn Taylor has some huge scalps to his name, including Ballinakill Alf, and there is no doubt that he could post a sub 18.40 performance if on his game. That said, he remains a leading player not only in this contest but in outright terms. Of his rivals tonight, Zaconey Vulcan gets the vote to give him the most to think about. Owned by Niall Foley, this tracker has a more favourable draw in trap one this weekend and if he produces his best form, which includes a stunning 17.37 around Lifford, he will certainly be in the mix for qualification. Burgess Jack and Feshtys Mo are others to keep an eye on as both performed well in last week's opening round and the latter in particular and step-up significantly.