Kevin Stott’s William Hill blog: Don’t underestimate Bucanero Fuerte

Leopardstown, Sunday

I kick off my rides on Sunday with Ornellaia in the Moyglare (3.25pm). She’s a lightly-raced filly who was impressive at Goodwood and then built on that when second in a Group 2 a couple of weeks later. It was a pleasing performance and we believe she can continue to improve. She’ll need to stepping up in grade but the team have been happy with her homework and any rain that comes would do her chances no harm at all.

I can’t wait to get back on Bucanero Fuerte in the National Stakes (4.00pm). He was very impressive at the top level last time in the Phoenix Stakes. He’s unbeaten at the Curragh and the step up to seven furlongs should be no problem as it’s a trip we’ve always thought he’d see out well. The way he quickened clear over six last time was really impressive and if anything I think he might be better over seven which is obviously very exciting. The Aidan O’Brien pair look very good colts, but I think our horse might have been a touch underestimated, especially at a track we know he loves.

I ride Revenue in the sales race (5.10pm). These races are always really valuable so it’s a little surprising there are only 12 runners, but it’s great to gave picked up a ride for Eve Johnson Houghton. He’s been consistent in his career so far and this doesn’t look the most competitive of contests so hopefully he has an each-way chance. Eve’s horses tend to run well in these sorts of races and the yard is in form having had that group winner at Salisbury during the week which is always good.

Finally, I get the leg up on Killybegs Warrior in the 1m2f handicap (5.45pm). He’s been pretty solid throughout the year and we ideally don’t want too much rain. He was a bit unlucky at York last time and is well-suited to these sorts of races. The track should suit and he’d have an each-way chance in an open race.