Punchestown 1:40 Result

Exceptionally has the highest exposed OR (96) in the field by a wide margin, with solid form figures 0334 showing consistent placing against likely stronger company, including a recent third. She's from the powerful Aidan O'Brien yard with a live book (Lordan up), by Into Mischief out of a Galileo mare - well bred for this trip. Her rating dwarfs Silver Kiss (86, the only other rated runner) despite Silver Kiss's 333 figures suggesting a want-to-win-but-can't type. Most of the field is unraced or has no worthwhile form (Soldier's Charm, Whytemontella, Cross Of Stars, Eagles Voice, Harita, Runningupthill all unraced), making this a form-driven race where the two rated fillies with genuine experience should dominate. Exceptionally's rating edge and the O'Brien string's typical maiden strike-rate make her the standout. Silver Kiss is respected as banker for place but Exceptionally's higher rating and being fresh for improvement (fourth run, but ratings trending with a solid effort last time) gives her the nod for the win. Draw 4 is workable on a straight mile at Punchestown. This looks the strongest form on offer and should start favourite or close to it, but is worth backing on merit rather than just market position - she's clearly best equipped for this maiden grade.