Nap of the Day: Mullins’ Gunner to finally fire

All eyes are on Dan Skelton and Willie Mullins' runners at Perth on Wednesday as the race for the Jump Trainers' Championship here in the UK heats up - and my Nap of the Day is one for the latter in the most lucrative race of the day.

I strongly believe we're yet to see the best of Willie Mullins' BALLYGUNNER CASTLE.

The six-year-old son of Soldier Of Fortune went 2-3 in bumpers last season and made the perfect start over obstacles in November, winning a 25-runner maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse's Winter Festival despite plenty of trouble in running.

He took a keen hold, didn't jump well at all and was pestered by a loose horse turning for home, almost getting run out on approach to the final flight. Yet, he still managed to pull over a length clear of his nearest rival.

I expected him to be immediately stepped up in trip, despite winning over the minimum trip on decent ground in County Meath, but unfortunately that didn't happen and it was no surprise to me that he was so disappointing at Navan in the new year, beating just one of his four rivals home.

When he was tried over further in Grade 3 company at Clonmel a month later, it turned into a bit of a non-event. Only two showed up against him and they crawled - and I mean crawled - round the County Tipperary venue before sprinting for home. Gordon Elliott's Ballybow marginally got the better of the selection in the end.

Just over 50 days later, he contested a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse over 2m4f and once again, I don't think he was seen to best effect. The pace was mundane and, to my eye at least, he was done for toe at the business end.

I believe Ballygunner Castle to be an out-and-out stayer. His nine-length triumph in a heavy-ground bumper at Limerick suggested as much, never mind his stamina-laden makeup.

He might just get the test I believe he needs in this Listed affair over three miles in Scotland on Wednesday. I'd prefer softer ground, but the 14-strong field should ensure a decent pace and that stamina comes into play.

It's slightly concerning that Paul Townend has chosen to ride stablemate Kiss Will, but he is significantly less exposed, especially at this trip, so it's not a great surprise to me. Also, Rachael Blackmore is a more-than-adequate deputy.

I respect the likes of Mister Meggit, the aforementioned Kiss Will, Horaces Pearl and Go West in the way of rivals, but I certainly don't fear them.

At the prices, I'm more than happy to chance that Ballygunner Castle can provide his trainer with a valuable bit of prize money in the thrilling battle with Dan Skelton for the Jump Trainers' Championship.

Click the links for the latest Horse Racing Odds and Today's Horse Races

Tune into Betfred Insights regularly to find our experts' Nap of the Day