Naas

Left-handed, galloping and relatively sweeping, Naas is a fair but demanding National Hunt track with a circuit of around a mile and a half. It is not particularly tight or sharp, allowing horses to establish a rhythm, while its stiff uphill finish places a premium on stamina.

The chase course runs outside the hurdles track and features eight fences per circuit. The obstacles are generally fair, but accurate jumping is important to maintain momentum. There are two fences in the home straight, which extends for almost four furlongs, followed by a run-in of over a furlong.

Ground conditions can vary around the circuit, with the section beyond the winning post towards the seven-furlong point tending to ride softer and becoming particularly testing when heavy. The long, rising straight makes the finish demanding. Tactically, it generally pays to race within striking distance.

Making up significant ground from the rear can be difficult, particularly in testing conditions, so conserving enough energy for the sustained climb to the line is crucial.