Resident racing expert John Duggan has given OTB AM his tips for today's racing at Punchestown. And he's somewhat pulling his punches(town) today, by hedging on a couple of horses that he sees as particularly well-placed.

Looking ahead to the Champion Hurdle, John fancies Samcro and Melon to battle it out in a terrific contest.

“Samcro is 11/10 – he’s odds on now,” John said.

“He’s an exceptional horse, he’s a really exciting horse – probably the most exciting horse I’ve seen since Moscow Flyer and Istabraq. We don’t know the limit of his potential – he’s never been beaten – he’s got guts because he won his point in Devon in desperate conditions.

“We don’t know how good he is but we’re going to find out today. It could look like the best bet of all time, or a step too far too soon. I don’t think it’s going to be a penalty kick for Samcro, I think Melon will put it up to Samcro. This is the most competitive race he [Samcro] has been involved in to date and Melon is a good horse.

“To me, it’s a race not to have a bet in – it’s a race to watch. If Samcro was 3/1 I’d be piling in, but at 11/10 it’s a race I want to watch and savour.”

John is most excited about the Champion Hunters Chase at 18:40 today.

“Caid Du Berlais, 5/1. Trained by Rose Loxton – this lady works with Paul Nicholls. This race today is over 3-and-a-half miles and I think it’s got a big chance of reaching the frame each way. That’s the bet of the day clearly for me.”

John's tips:

Star Best For Racing Coverage Champion Hunters Chase:

Caid Du Berlais – 5/1

Written by James Hopper