1/11/20 Naas + Cork

 Saturday saw a close finish with my selection Chris's Dream coming 2nd,he led heading towards the run in but as the finish approached he was passed by the 9/2 shot The Storyteller and was beaten by a neck. 

 The weekend concludes with meetings at Naas and Cork on Sunday with two features,The first is at Naas at 2.35 when 14 line up for the Naas Nursery Handicap. Sheer Chance arrives here after finishing a very good third at Leopardstown 8 days ago she looks likely to improve and go close again in this one. Hector De Maris looks like the main challenger his last race was a second at Leopardstown 15 days ago and if he can push on in the final furlong he will definitely be up there. Alex D just about held on for a win at Limerick 22 days ago coming home by a short head he makes his handicap debut here so is definitely one to consider while Let Me Pass is also a handicap debutant after two seconds at Killarney in early October and at Gowran Park 11 days ago so he's another one to consider. The two outsiders who could upset the odds are Huddle Up who last won at Cork in late August and was 6th on this course 2 weeks ago and Aleen Cust who was 5th at Leopardstown in mid October and should improve in this competitive nursery.

 The other big race is at Cork at 2.46 when 11 start the Paddy Power From The Horses Mouth Podcast EBF Novice Chase. Heaven Help Us has made a promising start over fences coming 2nd at Sligo in mid September and winning at Fairyhouse 22 days ago where she was 5 1/2 lengths in front and going up in trip means she will definitely make her presence felt. Home By The Lee arrives here after a career best victory at Limerick on his fences debut 21 days ago so he needs respect in this one. Two more to keep an eye on are Captain CJ who returns to action here making his season debut,his last victory was at Navan 8 months ago over 3 miles so he's definitely on the shortlist while Trainwreck returns after a mixed season last time his final outing was a below par 13th at Cheltenham in March but if he is back on form don't rule him out. 

Big race predictions: Naas 2.35: 10: Sheer Chance  Cork 2.46: 9: Heaven Help Us.

31/10/20 Down Royal

 A busy Friday saw most of the big races at Down Royal go the way of the favourites. In the opener Farouk D'alene came home by 8 lengths beating Pat's Pick. Queens Brook lost by a head the 6/5 favourite was passed by Skyace while the other favourite to loose was Abacadabras who was beaten by the 3/1 shot Aspire Tower. The 3.00 saw the most impressive horse of the day Envoi Allen storm to his ninth straight victory he beat January Jets by 6 lengths while the final race of the day was won by Chemical Energy the 10/11 favourite finished 8 lengths in front. The other big race of the day was at Dundalk where A Step Too Far finished 13th failing to win her seventh in a row the 7/1 shot was up with the leaders until 2 furlongs out when she began to weaken and she watched the 9/2 joint favourite Arcanears win by a neck.

 The weekend kicks off with a 7 race card at Down Royal I may have found it difficult to pick one big race on Friday but on Saturday it's easy with one standout race on day 2 of the Ladbrokes Festival of Racing it comes at 2.25 when 9 start the Ladbrokes Champion Chase. Chris's Dream last won at Gowran Park back in February and then travelled to the Cheltenham Gold Cup where he finished 10th he has though won 4 times over this races 3 mile distance and could easily do so again. Delta Work was 4th in this race 12 months ago since then he has won twice at Leopardstown including a 1 1/2 length victory in the Irish Gold Cup and if he jumps that well again here he will definitely challenge. Presenting Percy is the other main runner his last win was way back in January last year where he came home by 1 1/4 lengths and he was travelling well when he fell two out in the Cheltenham Gold Cup that was his last run for trainer Patrick Kelly and now he has moved to Gordon Elliott's yard he's worth considering. One outsider to look at is The Storyteller who has one three times already this year his last at Punchestown 17 days ago where he was a comfortable 7 1/2 length winner but he will need a strong performance to challenge here.

Big race prediction: 3: Chris's Dream.

30/10/20 Downroyal + Dundalk

 On Thursday my selection Sweet Sting was 4th she was 2nd 2 out but had nothing extra inside the final 100 yards and she was passed by Southerner,Eimear and the 14/1 winner Yaiza. 

 The racing week concludes with meetings at Downroyal and Dundalk on Friday.  Downroyal begins the two day Ladbrokes Festival of Racing and there isn't one standout race with exciting runners in 5 of the 7 contests. In the opener at 12.40 Farouk D'Alene makes his jumping debut after winning his three starts on the flat his last at Naas in February was a close one where he came home by a head. The star name in the 1.15 is Queens Brook who was third at the Cheltenham Festival back in March and arrives here after a Victory at Fairyhouse earlier this month. At 1.50 the WKD Hurdle has three big runners,Abacadabras was runner up to Shishkin in the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham and begins his road back to the Festival here he is predicted to go one better in the 2021 Champion Hurdle, his two main rivals on Friday are Aspire Tower who was another Cheltenham runner up this year and Jason The Millitant who comes here looking for his third win in a row. All eyes will be on one horse in the 3.00 when the unbeaten Envoi Allen makes his debut over fences. He was last seen winning by 4 1/4 lengths at the Cheltenham Festival his 8th straight win and he should make it nine here,his main challenger should be January Jets who will need to find the form that saw him win at Galway in September to have any chance. The last race of the day at 4.10 sees the highly rated Chemical Energy make only his second appearance after an easy 10 length victory at Roscommon on debut in September,So you can see why it's difficult to pick just one race on the card.

 The other meeting on Friday is at Dundalk where the big race is at 7.30 when 14 begin the Scarefest Competition On Instagram Handicap. A Step Too Far looks like the one to beat having won 6 times already this year her last was at The Curragh 33 days ago so it's hard to see past her in this one. Her main rivals are Geological who won this race last year and shouldn't be overlooked,Big Gossey who's last win was at The Curragh back in June and he was a creditable 5th on this course 2 weeks ago so he should not be taken lightly while Breakfast Club is respected after winning twice this year his last at Cork in September but this is really A Step Too Far's to loose.

Big race prediction: Dundalk 7.30:4: A Step Too Far.

29/10/20 Clonmel

 Wednesday's selections didn't fair well. At Punchestown Rhythm Divine was 4th she was up with the leaders until 3 out when she dropped back to 7th she pushed on again in the run-in but didn't have enough to trouble the 33/1 winner Funky Dady who came home by 2 1/2 lengths. At Dundalk Rock The Barzah was 9th she was chasing the leaders until 2 furlongs out but she had nothing extra and weakened in the final furlong and had to watch the 100/30 chance Lightning Boltz win the race by 1/2 length. 

 A quiet Thursday sees just one meeting a 7 race card at Clonmel. The feature race is at 2.50 when 12 start the www.Grahamnorris.com Memorial Handicap Hurdle. Sweet Sting has won twice at Tipparary this month her last was a career best victory 9 days ago where she came home by 5 lengths and that performance means she should complete the hat-trick here. Eimear has had 2 wins from 5 runs this year her last was on this Clonmel track and over this races 3 mile distance 28 days ago where she cruised to a 10 length victory another run like that will see her challenge. The other main horse to look at is Insane Bolt who's last win was at Downpatrick back in July and his last run was a very good third at Tramore 77 days ago where he was only beaten on the run-in and if he finds that little bit more pace then he will definitely be up there here. The one who could challenge the main runners is Rueben James who's last run was a victory over fences at Ballinrobe 12 days ago moving up in trip and back to hurdling here means he should not be overlooked while an outsider to look at is Ask Heather who has won on this track already this year that was in March and she arrives here after coming a very good second at Limerick 18 days ago so she could spring a surprise in an open race. 

Big race prediction: 1: Sweet Sting.

28/10/20 Punchestown + Dundalk

 After having no racing in Ireland on Tuesday the action returns with meetings at Punchestown and Dundalk on Wednesday with two features. The first big race is at Punchestown at 1.25 when 16 begin the Connolly's Red Mills Irish EBF Auction Hurdle Series Final. In a competitive field 3 standout,Rhythm Divine is a useful hurdler who has had two wins this year both came in August at Downpatrick where she came home by 8 1/2 lengths and at Bellewstown where she was just the 5 lengths in front. Her last race was a very good second at Gowran Park 26 days ago and going back up in trip means she has to be taken seriously. Fully Charged last won at Limerick back in December and was 6th in his last run at Navan 7 months ago but the time off puts him on the shortlist. Dime A Dozen is the other one that stands out following two wins this year at Tipparary in July and at Gowran Park last time out where she beat 5 others so she should definitely challenge. One other that should be looked at is Arcadian Sunrise who arrives here having won at Thurles earlier this month so don't discount him. 

 The other main race of the day is at Dundalk at 7.00 when 14 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Auction Maiden. Rock The Barzah makes only her second appearance after finishing 4th on debut at Fairyhouse 37 days ago she should improve here and is highly respected. Anna Strada last ran on this Dundalk course 19 days ago where she was a respectable 4th and returning to the same track means she has a good chance. Lighting Boltz has yet to win in his first seven races his best performances have been two second place finishes in August and if he finds that form here he should push on. If your looking for an outsider then Aikido is the one he was a very good 4th on his debut at Leopardstown in July and returning after 119 days off means he could surprise the main runners.

Big race predictions: Punchestown 1.25: 12: Rhythm Divine 

                                       Dundalk 7.00: 12: Rock The Barzah. 

26/10/20 Results

 Monday was a good day for predictions with both my selections doing well. At Galway La Joconde was 2nd she led inside the final 110 yards but was beaten by the 3/1 shot French Fusion who eventually crossed the line 4 lengths in front. While at Wexford Minella Indo won the 8/13 favourite went clear 2 out and never looked back coming home easily by 25 lengths. 

 There is no racing in Ireland on Tuesday so there are no predictions in this post. If you are looking for some races there are meetings in England at Bangor-On-Dee,Catterick, Chepstow and Southwell to keep you entertained. I will be back with a preview of Wednesday's action at Dundalk and Punchestown tomorrow night. 

26/10/20 Galway + Wexford

 The weekend ended with two decent results for my selections. At Galway Minella Melody finished 2nd the 13/8 chance was ridden well on the run in but couldn't make any impression on the easy winner Beacon Edge who came home by 4 3/4 lengths. At Wexford Ask Nile was 5th the 4/1 joint favourite chased the leaders until 5 out when he began to drop back and with no extra pace he saw Scoir Mear win the race by 6 lengths. 

  The brand new racing week begins with meetings at Galway and Wexford on Monday. The headline race at Galway is at 1.20 when a field of 7 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden. La Joconde has had three runs this year her last at The Curragh 15 days ago where she was a very good 3rd this promising newcomer has improved with every race and will be difficult to beat here. Queens Speech makes her debut in this race and being an Aiden O'brien runner she should be highly respected. The other one in with a chance is Magic Carousel who has been an outsider in both her runs this year but showed promise when finishing 2nd at Tipparary 23 days ago where she went off at 400/1 despite this she is the best of the other runners in this one.

 The days other big race is at Wexford at 3.15 when just 4 start the M.W. Hickey Memorial Chase. There are two standout horses who should dispute the top two places, Milan Native is hoping to win his third race in a row having won at the Cheltenham Festival back in March and he arrives here following a career best victory at Galway 19 days ago where he just about held on to win crossing the line a short head in front. The only real opposition is Minella Indo who has only run twice this year winning at Navan in January and finishing a very good second when last seen also at the Cheltenham Festival these two will be very difficult to beat but if your looking for an outsider then Turbojet is worth a look his last run was a win at Leopardstown 7 months ago where he won by 11 lengths this one definitely won't be as easy and he should only really be fighting for 3rd or 4th place. 

Big race predictions: Galway 1.20: 4: La Joconde  Wexford 3.15: 1: Minella Indo.

25/10/20 Galway + Wexford

 Saturday saw a mixed bag of results for my selections. At Leopardstown Carlisle Bay was 3rd the 6/4 favourite was beaten inside the final furlong by Wuqood and the 100/30 winner Flying Visit while at Galway Sassy Yet Classy was up with the leaders until a bad mistake 2 out saw her weaken and she had to watch the 11/2 shot Agent Boru win the race.

 A busy weekend concludes with meetings at Galway and Wexford and there are two features,the first is at Galway at 3.00 when just 4 start the Marlin Hotel Dublin,Supporting The National Breast Cancer Institute Hurdle. Minella Melody is a useful hurdler who before her last race had won three in a row she failed to make it four when finishing towards the back of the field at Cheltenham 7 months ago but she can definitely bounce back here on her return. Grand Roi has had a good year and is looking for his third win in a row following victories at Fakenham in January and Warwick in February where he was an easy 13 length winner so he is definitely in contention. The other two in the race won't make it easy,Beacon Edge arrives after a good victory at Downpatrick 16 days ago where he came home by 9 lengths while Happy Jacky comes here after a career best victory at Tipparary 69 days ago where he was also an easy winner finishing 7 lengths in front so none of these horses can be ruled out. 

 The other main contest is at Wexford at 3.55 when 11 start the Slade Handicap Chase. Fine Theatre and Scoir Mear renew their rively here after there last meeting on this Wexford track 7 months ago where Fine Theatre came out on top by 3 1/4 lengths to claim the victory but with no run since then it's difficult to see him winning again Scoir Mear on the other hand has run three times since that defeat his last at Limerick two weeks ago where he was a creditable 5th so he is on the shortlist. The other two that have a big chance are Ask Nile who has had three good runs this year a second at Kilbeggan in early August, a third at Ballinrobe and a respectable 5th at Listowel 32 days ago while Valdieu last won at Naas back in February and returned to that track to finish a very good third later in the same month and being off for 8 months means he should go well in this race where many have things to prove so don't be surprised if an outsider wins.

Big race predictions: Galway 3.00: 3: Minella Melody   Wexford 3.55: 3: Ask Nile.

24/10/20 Leopardstown + Galway

 Friday saw neither of my selections win. At Sligo Face The Odds was 4th the 2/1 favourite was up with the leaders until the run in when he weakened and was passed by Captain MC,One For Joe and the 16/5 winner Desire De Joie. At Dundalk Zozimus was 2nd in an extremely close finish the 2/1 favourite was beaten in the final strides by the 18/1 shot Soaring Sky.

 The weekend begins with meetings at Leopardstown and Galway on Saturday and two races standout. The first one is at Leopardstown at 3.39 when 9 start the Eyrefield Stakes. Carlisle Bay made a winning debut at Tipparary 21 days ago where he eased to a 2 length win and another performance like that will make him difficult to beat. Reve De Vol is in good form he won his debut at Fairyhouse in July and returns to the track where he was an impressive third in mid September so he should definitely challenge. Wuqood ran well in the Beresford Stakes at The Curragh last time out and was only 7th due to his lack of pace inside the final furlong despite that he should progress here. The other one to keep an eye on is Flying Visit who has had a good year so far his best performance was a victory at Listowel at the end of September he has followed that up with 3 second place finishes his last at Gowran Park just 3 days ago and going back up in trip to 1 mile 1 furlong means he should definitely be in the mix. 

 The other standout race is at Galway at 3.57 when 11 begin the W.B. Gavin & Co Handicap Hurdle. Sassy Yet Classy returns to action after her career best win at Navan 8 months ago where she stayed on well and came home by 2 3/4 lengths and she should be a big player here. Gran Geste won on this course a year ago and despite finishing 19th in his last race back in February his form before that shouldn't rule him out. Agent Boru hasn't won in his last 15 runs but he arrives here after finishing a creditable 8th at Limerick 13 days ago so he's definitely on the shortlist. The other two that could have a say are Westerner Point who was a good 3rd in a handicap chase at Limerick earlier this month and switching to hurdles here means he should not be ruled out while Moyode Gold needs to find the form that saw her have a win and two seconds at Fairyhouse at the beginning of the year and needs to bounce back from an 11th at Ballinrobe 48 days ago.

Big race predictions: Leopardstown 3.39: 1:Carlisle Bay  Galway 3.57: 8: Sassy Yet Classy.

23/10/20 Sligo + Dundalk

 Thursday was a good prediction day,at Thurles The Bosses Oscar won he went into the lead 2 out and despite hampering the second placed horse Rightplacerightime in the final 100 yards the 5/2 shot came home by 2 1/4 lengths. At Navan Jesse Evans was 2nd in a very close finish the 15/8 favourite led heading towards the final furlong but under mounting pressure he was passed by the 7/2 chance llmig and finished 1/2 length behind.

 We end the racing week with meetings at Sligo and Dundalk on Friday where there are two features. The first is the 4.53 at Sligo when 10 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle. Face The Odds has only run twice this year a 6th placed finish at Thurles and a second last time out at Downpatrick where he was 6 lengths behind the winner but if he pushes on and finds some extra pace he will be the one to beat here. Desire De Joie has yet to win in his career and was below form when finishing 5th at Navan back in March but if he reproduces the kind of run that saw him finish 3rd at Punchestown in February he will definitely challenge. Two others that could upset the odds are Captain MC who's last race was a 2nd at Downpatrick 35 days ago although he will have to significantly improve as he finished 9 1/2 lengths behind in that run while One For Joe is the outsider to look at,his last run was over this races 3 mile distance at Listowel 33 days ago where he finished a below form 4th.

 The days other feature is at Dundalk at 6.15 when 17 begin the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. Zozimus was an excellent second at The Curragh 26 days ago he only missed out on victory by a short head and another run like that here will make him difficult to beat. Bears Hug has only run twice both on this Dundalk course finishing 3rd two weeks ago and he should give another good account of himself in this one. Always Waitin made his debut at Cork 37 days ago where he finished a very good 3rd and he is definitely one who could challenge the leaders so should not be ruled out while Offiah and Soring Sky both make there debuts here and both representing powerful yards means they should be considered.

Big race predictions: Sligo 4.53: 6: Face The Odds  Dundalk 6.15: 5: Zozimus.

22/10/20 Thurles + Navan

 In Wednesday's only big race my selection Mean Fomhair finished 8th the 100/30 shot weakened 2 furlongs out and had to watch the 9/1 chance Comfort Line win the race he crossed the line 1/2 a length in front.

 There are two further meetings on Thursday at Thurles and Navan with two features. The first is at Thurles at 3.17 when 9 begin the He'llberemembered Hurdle. The Bosses Oscar has had two wins in his career his last was at Leopardstown in December last year but he did run well in his last race where he stayed on to claim 5th in the Martin Pipe Handicap at Cheltenham in March and with this being his first run in 7 months he should challenge. Go Another One has had 2 wins from 4 runs this year they came at Cork in early August and Down Royal later in the same month,his last run was a third at Limerick 11 days ago and switching from chasing to hurdles means he should be respected. The other two that should go well are Robin Des Foret who didn't show his best form when finishing 6th at Listowel 29 days ago but returning to hurdles here means he has a chance while Due Reward can't be ruled out despite finishing 7th at Gowran Park 19 days ago his previous form which included a victory at Killarney in August last year means he deserves respect. 

 The days other main race is at Navan at 4.15 when 10 head down to the start for the Flower Hill Maiden. All eyes will be on Tiger Roll who begins his quest for a third Grand National without a fence in sight he has won the world's biggest steeplechase twice finishing 2 3/4 lengths in front in 2019 after the 30 fences. His last race was 7 months ago where he was second at the Cheltenham Festival but despite the long lay-off he will definitely challenge. This race does have a strong field with many who could spoil Tiger Roll's day, Jesse Evans is looking for his third win in a row after impressive victory's at Listowel in late September and Gowran Park 20 days ago where he came home by 8 lengths. Princess Vega last ran 17 months ago winning her debut race at Tramore by 7 1/2 lengths so don't rule her out while Ciel D'afrique will look to build on his two second place finishes in July his last being at Galway. Two others that could have a say are Greek Gladiator who impressed at The Curragh when finishing third a week ago and should improve and Bridge Native who has won three times this year her last at Galway in early September and she should build on a second at Limerick 11 days ago in what will be a competitive race.

Big race predictions: Thurles 3.17: 3: The Bosses Oscar  Navan 4.15: 2: Jesse Evans.

21/10/20 Gowran Park

 Tuesday was a great day for predictions with both my selections winning.  At Fairyhouse Earls challenged the leaders inside the final furlong and the 15/8 shot beat the favourite Glow Worm by 2 and 1/2 lengths while at Tipparary the 13/8 favourite Sweet Sting beat Rocky's Sliver by 5 lengths.

 There is just one meeting on Wednesday a 7 race card at Gowran Park,the feature is at 3.30 when 10 start the PWC Kilkenny Handicap. Mean Fomhair finished 5th at Navan 2 weeks ago in a very close race and with a clear run here she could pick up her first win of the year. Kodiac Prince last won back in July on this course and over this races 7 furlong distance since then his best performances have been seconds at Listowel at the end of September and at Tipparary 18 days ago so he should challenge again here. Comfort Line picked up his only victory at Limerick in mid July his last race was a creditable 2nd on that same Limerick track 11 days ago so he definitely shouldn't be overlooked. The other two that are worth a look are In From The Cold who was a good 4 1/2 length second in his last race at Limerick 11 days ago and despite having no pace to match the winner in the final furlong he should still be taken seriously here while Miss Myers put in a decent performance to finish 4th at Navan 2 weeks ago and is definitely one to consider.

Big race prediction: 8: Mean Fomhair. 

20/10/20 Fairyhouse + Tipparary

 Monday saw a good start prediction wise as my selection Port Sunlight won. The 9/4 favourite moved into the lead inside the final furlong staying on well and finishing 3 lengths in front.

 There are meetings on Tuesday at Fairyhouse and Tipparary with two feature contests,the first is at Fairyhouse at 3.05 when 6 start the Tattersalls Ireland Handicap. Earls is the only runner with any recent wins his came at Sligo at the beginning of August where he stayed on well in the final furlong and came home by 1 and 1/4 lengths and if he reproduces that form he will be difficult to beat. Royal Hideaway makes his handicap debut here and is one to keep an eye on as he looks to bounce back from his last Maiden race an 8th at Tipparary 17 days ago. In a small field others that could challenge are Is That Love who's best performance this year was a third at Listowel in late September and he will have to find that form to have a chance while Glow Worm is still looking for her first win in this her 21st race the only problem she has will be tiredness having run 8 times since the beginning of August so she will probably be an outsider here. 

 The other main race of the day is at Tipparary at 3.15 when 12 head to the start for the Tipparary Handicap. Sweet Sting looks like the one to beat as she returns to the track where she picked up her career best win 16 days ago she went into the lead inside the final 50 yards and won by 3/4 of a length that win was also over this races 3 mile distance. There are two main threats in this one, Hello Pilgrim last won over hurdles at Limerick in June and her last run was a good 2nd at Roscommon 22 days ago so she is fancied to travel well again while The Trigger has picked up 5 wins from 7 runs this year his last was at Downpatrick at the beginning of August that was his fifth in a row so he shouldn't be overlooked in this long but competitive race. 

Big race predictions: Fairyhouse 3.05: 3: Earls  Tipparary: 3.15:9: Sweet Sting.

19/10/20 Gowran Park

 Sunday wasn't a great day for predictions. At Naas Snapraetera was 4th the 11/4 favourite was the narrow leader inside the final furlong but weakened and he was passed by Vafortino,The Blue Panther and the 9/2 winner Ecliptical. At Cork Coko Beach was a non runner the race was won by the 8/11 favourite Foxy Jacks.

 Monday sees just one meeting to kick off the week it's a 7 race card at Gowran Park. The feature is at 3.35 when 14 head to the start for the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Fillies Maiden. Port Sunlight made her debut at Navan 51 days ago where she finished a good 4th and if she finds some extra final furlong pace she will be the one to beat. Martinique makes her debut here this well- bred newcomer is definitely one to keep an eye on. Even Flow has had two runs this year her best performance was a third at Navan at the beginning of this month and going significantly up in trip here will definitely suit and she should improve. Two others that merit consideration are Handbags N Gladrags who made a promising debut finishing 5th at The Curragh 23 days ago and going up in trip to a mile should suit and Aurora Princess who made a solid start at Thurles 11 days ago crossing the line 3rd but she didn't push on in the final furlong and will need to improve here. 

Big race prediction: 5: Port Sunlight.

18/10/20 Naas + Cork

 Saturday was a poor day for predictions with both my selections finishing down the field. At Ballinrobe Sheer Liss was 6th the 7/2 shot had to watch the 2/1 joint favourite Darren's Hope romp home by 11 lengths while at Leopardstown Ontario was 5th the 6/4 favourite lost ground inside the final furlong and Poetic Flare came home the 3/1 winner.

 There are two meetings on Sunday at Naas and Cork to round off the weekend. All eyes will be on Naas at 3.05 when 16 start the Foran Equine Irish EBF Auction Race Final. Snapraetera has had two wins from six runs this year his last one was at Roscommon in mid August and he arrives here having been a very good third in the Beresford Stakes at The Curragh 22 days ago a race that was won by High Definition a horse who is the very early favourite for next years Epsom Derby. Belle Image looks like a threat she won at The Curragh in late September in the race that got her to this final she went into the lead 100 yards from home finishing 2 1/4 lengths in front and if she reproduces that form here she will definitely challenge. There are three that could also challenge,Vafortino comes here having finished a very good third at Tipparary 15 days ago so he could push on while Ecliptical was a winner at Bellewstown in his last run 53 days ago he stayed on well there and could do the same here. The other one is the outsider Supershock who's last race was a week ago at The Curragh where she finished 2nd but she will need a special run to win this one. 

 The days other feature is at Cork at 4.27 when a field of 6 contest the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase. Coko Beach is the best horse in this race he is making his chase debut after finishing 9th in his final hurdles race at the Cheltenham Festival back in March and if his jumping pases this test he will be hard to beat. Foxy Jacks will look to improve on his fences debut 7 days ago where he got no further than the third before he unseated his rider but if he avoids any mistakes he should be right up there here while Daybreak Boy will look to recapture the form that saw him finish 2nd at Leopardstown back in December last year his last couple of runs have been disappointing and he will need a big performance here.

Big race predictions: Naas 3.05: 2: Snapraetera  Cork 4.27: 1: Coko Beach.

17/10/20 Ballinrobe + Leopardstown

 Friday wasn't a bad day prediction wise. At Leopardstown Legal Thriller was 5th the 5/1 shot was narrowly beaten inside the final furlong by MK Drama, Neyland, Angle's Trumpet and the 6/1 winner Day Dreamin while at Dundalk Acquiescent won beating the 2/1 favourite Sindhia by a neck.

 A busy weekend begins with two meetings at Ballinrobe and Leopardstown. The big race at Ballinrobe is at 1.35 when 8 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle. Sheer Liss has impressed in her last two runs a victory at Down Royal at the end of August and a second place at Gowran Park earlier this month and despite going up in trip she should perform well here. The other main challenger is Sovereign Gold who is looking for her 3rd win in a row following 2 point to point victories this year at Aghabullogue and Kildorrery both in County Cork so she should step up easily here and this newcomer shouldn't be overlooked. The others who could do well are Rhyme'N Rhythm who makes her hurdles debut here and the longer trip should suit her and Darren's Hope who's last win was back in January but she was a decent 2nd in her last run at Listowel 27 days ago so don't rule either of them out. 

 The other big race is at Leopardstown at 3.00 when 9 start the Killavullan Stakes. Ontario looks like the one to beat after a reasonable year,two wins in July and August followed by 2 seconds in late September and last time out at Tipparary 2 weeks ago where he fell away in the last 50 yards but returning to action so quickly after means he should improve. Masen definitely has potential despite finishing last at The Curragh over this races 7 furlong distance 34 days ago where he led the group 1 Vincent O'brien stakes 2 furlongs out but faded and dropped back,If he recaptures the form that saw him win on this Leopardstown course back in July then he will be a challenger. Poetic Flare is definitely in the mix here as he looks to bounce back after finishing 10th in the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket a week ago his debut was a win at Naas in March and that performance means he is a threat.  The other two to be respected are Erzindjan who won over this distance at Cork 53 days ago and Zaffy's Pride who will look to make it 3 wins in a row following two wins at Dundalk the last 15 days ago. 

Big race predictions: Ballinrobe 1.35: 2:Sheer Liss  Leopardstown 3.00: 6:Ontario. 

16/10/20 Leopardstown + Dundalk

 Thursdays two races saw my predictions do well. At The Curragh Make A Challenge was 4th the 2/1 favourite had Downforce,Could Be King and the 5/2 winner Lustown Baba in front of him while at Tramore Yaiza won the 100/30 favourite finished 1/2 a length in front of Mick Charlie. 

 There are two meetings on Friday at Leopardstown and Dundalk to end the week. The feature at Leopardstown is at 2.30 when 13 go to the start for the Leopardstown Handicap.  Day Dreamin has had a consistent year her best performances came at Dundalk where she finished a close second in mid September and a third at Navan two weeks ago where again she ran very well and was unlucky in the final furlong and she should push on here. Silk Cravats best recent run was a second at Cork in early September where he stayed on well in the final furlong and missed out by a head, his last win was way back in April last year but he is capable of breaking that run here. The other one who could feature is Legal Thriller who didn't show her best form when finishing 9th at Thurles a week ago but if she recaptures the form that saw her finish 2nd at Cork at the end of September then she will definitely be a threat.

 The other big race is at Dundalk at 7.15 when 9 head down to the start for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. Acquiescent last won at Fairyhouse back in June but looked very good when finishing 3rd at Dundalk over this races 7 furlong distance 7 days ago so she should finish well again here. Windham Belle looks like the main challenger having won on this course early in her career,her last run was a 5th at Cork 17 days ago and if she can push on and find some final furlong pace she will make her presence felt. Others that could pass the post first include Royal Highness who shouldn't be ruled out if back to her best and Unforgettable who makes her Handicap debut here and will look to improve on a 5th place in her last outing in what could be a very close race. 

Big race predictions: Leopardstown 2.30: 4: Legal Thriller  Dundalk 7.15: 5: Acquiescent. 

15/10/20 The Curragh + Tramore

 In Wednesday's only big race my selection A Wave Of The Sea was 3rd at Punchestown,the 15/8 favourite was beaten by Polished Steel and the 5/1 winner Zarkareva.

 After a slow midweek the action picks up again on Thursday with meetings at The Curragh and Tramore. The feature race at The Curragh is at 1.35 when 12 start the TRM Waterford Testimonial Stakes. Make A Challenge has had 4 wins this year his last was at Navan in late August he also won at this course and over this races 6 furlong distance also in August, Despite finishing 8th at Longchamp last time out he is still in good form and is the one to beat. The main threat is Lustown Baba who returns to the track where she last won just 4 days ago where she beat 14 others in a 6 furlong handicap coming home by 7 1/2 lengths so she is definitely capable of winning again here. The other one to look at is Romantic Proposal who's last 5 outings have all been at The Curragh including a victory in mid July her last race was a very good 4th in the Renaissance Stakes 19 days ago where she led briefly in the final 100 yards but had no extra pace but she could still upset the odds here. 

 The days other feature is at Tramore at 3.28 when 11 head down to the start for the Pickardstown Rated Novice Chase. Yaiza loves running on this Tramore course he won in mid August and was 2nd 28 days ago,he's dropping down in trip for this his chase debut but he will definitely be up there. Itsalonglongroad picked up a career best win at Downpatrick 27 days ago he jumped well and came home by 4 lengths and will Challenge in this one. Two others to watch out for are Mick Charlie who's last win was in early August at Kilbeggan and Pat Coyne who has had a good year with two seconds at this Tramore track and at Wexford his best performances so both could be outsiders.

Big race predictions: The Curragh 1.35: 1: Make A Challenge   Tramore 3.28: 11: Yaiza.

14/10/20 Punchestown

 Tuesday was a brilliant day prediction wise with both my selections winning. At Punchestown Darver Star hit the front 2 out staying on well and easily winning by 12 lengths while at Cork it was a much closer affair with Sir Lucan mounting his challenge 150 yards out beating Flying Visit by a neck.

 A quiet midweek sees just one meeting a 7 race card at Punchestown with the feature at 2.50 when a small field of 6 start the Idealgraphik.Ie Branding Irish Racecourses Novice Chase. A Wave Of The Sea has had two wins this year at Leopardstown back in February and a novice chase at Kilbeggan 33 days ago where despite some sloppy jumping he came home 11 lengths in front and he should be up there again in this one. Razoul last won at Tramore in July and his best effort since then was a very good second in a chase at Roscommon 16 days ago and he will definitely challenge here. Zarkareva will have a say after impressing when winning at Sligo in mid September he moved into the lead two out and never looked back romping home by 16 lengths it won't be that easy here but don't rule him out. An outsider to look at is Popong  who comes into this race following a fortunate win at Listowel 21 days ago she only hit the front after the leader Western Victory fell at the last and she will need a massive improvement to win here.

Big race prediction: 5: A Wave Of The Sea.

13/10/20 Punchestown + Cork

 The week began well with my prediction Nobody Home winning the 4.50 at Kilbeggan. The 7/2 shot took the lead 2 out and went comfortably clear on the run in eventually finishing 5 lengths clear of the 11/4 favourite Brogine. 

 On Tuesday there are meetings at Punchestown and Cork with 2 feature contests. The first takes place at Punchestown at 1.40 when 10 start the Ladbrokes Watch Racing Online For Free Beginners Chase. Darver Star is the standout horse who makes his chase debut here following some decent hurdle performances. His last two were a good second in the Irish Champion Hurdle back in February and he was last seen finishing third in the English running of the same race at Cheltenham in March and his form is far superior then anything else in this races field. If your looking for a challenger then Exit Poll and Conflated are ones to look at but really it's Darver Star's to loose. 

 The days other feature is at Cork at 1.55 when a field of 12 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race. Sir Lucan looks the pick of the bunch after a fine run last time finishing forth in the Beresford Stakes at The Curragh 17 days ago he should build on that and another strong performance is expected. Flying Visit has had a good year the highlight being a victory at Listowel in late September and he should run well again here. The other one to keep an eye on is Kailash who makes his third appearance in this race having finished 5th on his debut at Naas in mid September and a very good second at The Curragh 17 days ago so don't rule him out. 

Big race predictions: Punchestown 1.40: 2: Darver Star  Cork 1.55: 10: Sir Lucan.

12/10/20 Kilbeggan

 Sunday was a poor day prediction wise the best finisher was Sonnyboyliston in the 3.10 at The Curragh she came in 4th with Raise You,Up Helly Aa and the 6/1 winner Helvic Dream passing the post in front of her. In the other race at The Curragh Run For Mary was 14th the 3/1 joint favourite made no impression and it was left up to Cape Gentleman to win at 15/2. It was even worse at Limerick where Chavi Artist unseated his rider 6 out with Aforementioned the 6/1 winner.

 After a busy weekend the new week begins with an 8 race card at Kilbeggan and the feature is at 4.50 when 11 start the Mullingar Veterans Handicap Chase. Nobody Home arrives having finished a very good third on this course in early September his other race this year was a 2nd at Thurles in January so he should be taken seriously here. All The Chimneys looked back to his best when finishing 2nd at Tipparary 8 days ago and if he performs like that again he will definitely be one to watch. Bellgrove last won 11 runs ago but showed signs of that winning form when 3rd at Punchestown 12 days ago so he shouldn't be overlooked. Riviera Sun needs to bounce back after a 9th placed finish at Tramore in mid August he has though won twice over this course early in his career when he won a 2 mile 4 furlong contest which happens to be this races distance and a 3 mile race in August last year which means he has a good chance. Kilkishen and Out Sam are the others to keep an eye on in a race where stamina might prevail. 

Big race prediction: 5: Nobody Home.

11/10/20 The Curragh + Limerick

 Saturday was a good day with both my predictions performing well. At Fairyhouse Lord Lariat won the 11/8 favourite was 5 1/2 lengths in front of Something Sweet. At Limerick Dance Jupiter was 3rd the 13/8 favourite had In From The Cold and the 25/1 winner Saltonstall in front of him.

 A bumper Sunday sees meetings at The Curragh and Limerick with 3 standout races the first of which is at 3.10 at The Curragh where 10 head to the start for the Novi IT Services International Stakes. Sonnyboyliston certainly enjoys racing on this course having won twice already this year both victories were also over this races distance of 1 mile 2 furlongs his last being 28 days ago when he finished 4 1/4 lengths in front. Order Of Australia is also a fine horse and is looking for his third win in a row following two wins in September at Dundalk and a 5 runner race on this course two weeks ago as he aims to give Aidan O'brien a hat-trick of wins in this race. Etneya is also a course winner having come home 3 1/4 lengths in front in a fillies maiden back in July and she will look to build on an impressive second at Gowran Park in mid September. Up Helly Aa has had two good runs this year a second at Killarney in August and a third at Leopardstown 29 days ago and is an outsider here who could go well. 

 The other big race at The Curragh is at 3.40 when a field of 22 start the Paddy Power Irish Cesarewitch. Run For Mary has had one win from 3 runs this year that was at Bellewstown where she stayed on well to finish 3/4 of a length in front that was back in early July and she should step up again here. Kaatskill Nap looks like the main danger last winning at Galway over hurdles back in July his last run on the flat was here at The Curragh in June this year when he was 8th but his other useful efforts mean he is definitely one to look at. Shoshone Warrior should improve on his second at Leopardstown 29 days ago while Golden Spear should also give a good account and will definitely be better than his 11th at Listowel in late September. An outsider to keep an eye on is last year's winner Royal Illusion who was 8 1/2 lengths in front 12 months ago and going back up to 2 miles gives her a chance in a very competitive race. 

 We then move to Limerick at 4.00 as 16 contest the JT Mcnamara Ladbrokes Munster National. Several have good chances in what is a difficult race to call. Chavi Artist,Walk Away and Moyhenna are on form the three that standout but both Doctor Duffy and Roaring Bull will have something to say about that as any of these could pass the post first. 

Big race predictions: The Curragh 3.10: 8: Sonnyboyliston  3.40: 17: Run For Mary.

Limerick 4.00: 14: Chavi Artist.

10/10/20 Fairyhouse + Limerick

 Friday saw my predictions finish at both ends of the field. At Downpatrick Tullybeg won the Evens Favourite beat Face The Odds by 6 lengths while at Dundalk Leadership Race was slowly away and at the back throughout never in contention the 6/4 Favourite finished last.

  A busy weekend of action begins with meetings at Fairyhouse and Limerick on Saturday and two races standout. The 1st feature is the 2.40 at Fairyhouse when 13 start the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap. Lord Lariat has won twice over hurdles this year both at Tipparary in late June and early July since then his best run was a 2nd in a handicap chase at Punchestown 10 days ago and he is strongly fancied here. Select Opportunity returns to action after a year out looking for his third win after victories at Sligo and this Fairyhouse course but he will need a strong performance to win here. Russian Bill last ran at Clonmel back in February where he was a good third and if he eliminates his jumping mistakes he will go well here. The other one with a chance is Avec Espoir who was up with the leaders when he fell 2 from home at Listowel 15 days ago and if he has suffered no ill-effects he will travel well in this one.

  The days other standout race is at Limerick at 3.30 when 9 begin the Jim Ryan Racecourse Services Munster Mile Handicap. Sheer Bravado is looking for his fourth win in a row after winning at Listowel,Tipparary and Killarney already this year his last win was 6 days ago so he definitely has a chance. Dance Jupiter was a very good third in his last run at the Curragh two weeks ago and another strong performance puts him right in the mix here. The other one to consider is Quizzical who's last run was in the Irish Cambridgeshire 43 days ago where he was 2nd only 3/4 of a length behind the winner so don't rule him out of this one.

Big race predictions: Fairyhouse 2.40: 6: Lord Lariat. Limerick 3.30: 4: Dance Jupiter.

9/10/20 Downpatrick + Dundalk

 In the only feature race on Thursday my prediction didn't do as well as was hoped. Dunvegan was 5th at Thurles the 9/5 favourite was up with the leaders until 2 furlongs out when Hearts Are Turmps,3rd placed Snegurochka,runner up Llmig and the 9/2 winner Arcadian Sunrise all passed her.

  Friday is another busy day with meetings at Downpatrick and Dundalk with a couple of feature races,the first is the 1.45 at Downpatrick when 11 start the I.N.H Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle. Tullybeg got no further then the first fence at Gowran Park a week ago before unseating his rider but his form before that was good including a win at Bellewstown in July and going up in trip here should not see him written off. Face The Odds has had two races over hurdles coming second at Down Royal in November last year but failing to reproduce that form when 6th at Thurles back in February but having 8 months off could easily see him bounce back. Captain MC impressed when 2nd on this Downpatrick course in mid September and he should go well again in this one while Stormy Judge is the other one to keep an eye on his last race was a creditable 5th in a 3 mile hurdle at Limerick in March and the combination of having 6 months off and a drop down in trip means he is respected.

  The other main race of the day is at Dundalk at 7.00 when 14 go to post for the Dundalkstadium.com handicap. Leadership Race looks like the one to beat having won over this 7 furlong race distance and this Dundalk course twice both in October last year since then his best performance was a 2nd at Leopardstown back in early July and is a good shout to maintain his 100% record here. War Hero also loves Dundalk and 7 furlongs having won 3 times here lastly back in January this year so he should definitely be respected. Trading Point was a good second at Listowel 17 days ago and also knows Dundalk well having won here a year ago so don't rule him out while Acquiescent is also one to look at having had one win from 3 runs this year that came at Fairyhouse back in June and he may well be up there again with Geological and Katiymann the best outsiders who could have a say.

Big race predictions: Downpatrick 1.45: 2: Tullybeg 7.00 Dundalk 2: Leadership Race.

8/10/20 Thurles

 It wasn't a bad day prediction wise with both my selections close to winning. At Navan Sasta was third in a tight finish she had Stormy Belle and the 15/2 winner Memyselfandmoi in front of her while at Galway Bridge Native was second beaten by a head by the 11/1 winner Scheu Time.

  The racing week continues with a 7 race card at Thurles on Thursday and the feature is the days last race at 5.20 when 16 go to the start for the Horse & Jockey Maiden. Dunvegan last ran in March where he was 2nd in a novice chase on this course but a mistake 3 out meant he finished 14 lengths behind the winner but his 6 month layoff means he could have a big chance in this his flat season debut. Silver Fox was a respectable 3rd at Fairyhouse a week ago but going up significantly in trip here will suit and he will relish the test. Arcadian Sunrise has won twice this year his last at Leopardstown back in March his races since then have been down at 1 mile 6 furlongs where he finished 2nd at Gowran Park and 3rd at Listowel 13 days ago but going back up to 2 miles puts him high on the list. Others to consider are Monopoly who was 3rd at Ballinrobe back in July but he should be up there over this longer distance while Rose Albertine was a creditable 4th at Gowran Park in her last race 57 days ago and going up in trip here makes her one to look at.

Big race prediction: 4: Dunvegan. 

7/10/20 Navan & Galway

 With no racing in Ireland on Tuesday the action returns with meetings at Navan and Galway on Wednesday with two features. The first is at Navan at 4.55 where 11 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap where 3 have a good chance. Sasta has two wins from five runs this year her last was at Gowran Park 18 days ago where she was a good 5 1/2 lengths in front when she crossed the line and she will definitely be a big player here. Memyselfandmoi was a very good third in her last outing at Listowel in late September and if she puts in the same strong performance she will be up there again here. The other strong contender is Zoom Zoom Babe who has had 2 second place finishes this year her last was at Gowran Park in early September but she found a move up to 1 mile 4 furlongs last time out at Tipparary a little too far so a significant drop in trip to a mile here should suit. Others that may challenge are Sh Boom and Mean Fomhair but it will be an upset if either of these two win. 

  The days other big race is at Galway at 5.15 when 13 go to post for the Guinness Handicap. Pilbara is the strongest horse here having won twice already this year at Tipparary where he was 7 lengths in front after 3 miles and at Cork in July where he got home by a head since those two wins he has dropped down in trip with two seconds his best results, his last being at Listowel 2 weeks ago and he should be challenging again here. Bridge Native is looking for her 3rd win in a row following victories at Downpatrick in August and last time out on this Galway track in early September so definitely one to watch. Thecraicisninety finished a good third over this course and distance back in July and was only ran out of the top two inside the final furlong so should go well again here while Diamond Turf is the other main danger having not raced since a second over this races distance at Gowran Park back in March so he should be competitive in a strong race. 

Big race predictions: Navan 4.55- 6: Sasta  Galway 5.15: 5: Bridge Native.

5/10/20 Result

 The week began with another prediction that didn't win. Dystart Diamond was 4th at Killarney, Friary Rock,Flemings Dream and the winner 9/4 favourite Western Run were in front of her.

  There is no racing in Ireland on Tuesday so there won't be any predictions in this post but if you are looking for some action there are meetings in England at Catterick, Leicester, Lingfield and Southwell to keep you entertained. The next preview post will be up tomorrow night (Tuesday) for Wednesdays meetings at Galway and Navan. 

5/10/20 Killarney

 It was a good end to the week as both my predictions did well. At Tipparary Saint Roi won the 4/7 favourite beat Tigris River by 5 1/2 lengths while at Killarney Actuary was 2nd the 11/8 favourite was beaten by 2 1/4 lengths by the 11/4 winner Coltor. 

  The new racing week begins with an 8 race card at Killarney and the feature is at 3.35 when 11 run in the Plaza Hotel Rated Novice Hurdle. Dystart Diamond is looking for her 3rd win in a row having been first past the post at Limerick in July and at Tramore in her hurdles debut 50 days ago where she beat 11 others in an impressive run and going up in trip here will definitely suit. Flemings Dream was third over hurdles at Killeggan 24 days ago where she finished just behind another one of this contests runners Friary Rock so it will be interesting to see who comes out on top in there rivalry here. Westen Run could upset everyone as he looks to build on his career best win at Downpatrick in late August where he romped home by an easy 13 lengths so definitely one to consider here. Others to look at are Tune The Chello and Oscar Thyne in what will be a hard fought race.

Big race prediction: 3: Dystart Diamond. 

4/10/20 Tipparary + Killarney

 Saturday was a poor day for my predictions as both were non runners. At Tipparary Vatican City didn't run as Current Option took the race at 7/2 with the 5/1 shot Laughifuwant second while at Gowran Park Put The Kettle On was the only one who didn't start as the 11/10 favourite Easy Game came home 1st with the Storyteller a huge 7 lengths back in 2nd. 

  The racing week comes to an end with two meetings on Sunday at Tipparary and Killarney with two feature contests.  The first is at Tipparary at 1.35 when a field of 7 start the Horse & Jockey Hotel Hurdle. Saint Roi looks like the one to beat having won twice already this year his last victory was the County Hurdle at Cheltenham back in March where he impressively beat 23 others his main danger here is Beacon Edge who has had 2 good second place finishes over hurdles at Naas this year his last was at the beginning of March and a step up to 2 miles where he has won twice before will suit. Others to look at are Chosen Mate and Djingle who could upset the odds.

  The other big race is at Killarney at 3.25 when 8 go to post for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden with 2 standing out. Actuary was 4th on his debut at Cork 49 days ago and has plenty more to give here while Watchman last ran in the middle of September when he was a creditable 5th at Tipparary and was 3rd on this Killarney course back in July so he should do well again. Coltor is the one who could upset the leading two he has run twice this year finishing 5th on both occasions but the longer trip here will suit and he could go well in what will be a stern test of stamina. 

Big race predictions: Tipparary 1.35: 5: Saint Roi  Killarney 3.25: 1: Actuary. 

3/10/20 Tipperary + Gowran Park

 The week ended with two more predictions that didn't win. At Gowran Park Eilise's A Lady finished 7th Purple Mountain came home the 9/4 favourite while at Dundalk Magnanimous came 2nd the 11/4 favourite was beaten by Zaffy's Pride who finished 1 1/4 lengths in front. 

  The weekend begins with two meetings on Saturday at Tipperary and Gowran Park with a couple of feature races. The first is at Tipperary at 2.25 when 16 head to the start for the Coolmore US Navy Flag Concorde Stakes. 3 standout here,Vatican City was a below par 7th in the Diamond Stakes at Dundalk 8 days ago but looked impressive when finishing 3rd in the Boomerang Mile at Lepardstown earlier in September and a drop back down in trip to 7 furlongs where he picked up his only win back in October last year should suit. Albigna's last race was at Lepardstown during Irish Champions Weekend where she was a creditable 5th in the Matron Stakes her other group 1 race was a 6th in this years Irish 1000 Guineas but a drop down to a group 3 here gives her a good chance. The other one with a chance is Currant Option who's last win was in the Platinum Stakes at Cork in early August over this 7 furlong distance so he should be right up there here. Outsiders who might upset the form are Laughifuwant and Could Be King so don't be surprised if one of them crosses the line first. 

  The other feature race of the day comes at Gowran Park at 4.55 when a small field of 6 start the PWC Champion Chase. 2 ran in this race last year and return for the 2020 running,Peregrine Run was 2nd 12 months ago missing out on victory by 6 1/2 lengths since then his best run was a win at Killarney back in July while The Storyteller was last a year ago but he has won three times since including at Galway at the beginning of September so he should definitely be respected this time around. Put The Kettle On is the most impressive horse in the race winning 6 out of her last 7 races her best victory was in the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham back in March and going back up in trip to 2 miles 4 where she has won three times before will definitely suit in what will be a hard fought race. 

Big race predictions: 2.25 Tipperary- 6: Vatican City. 4.55 Gowran Park- 5: Put The Kettle On.

2/10/20 Gowran Park + Dundalk

 Thursday saw both of my predictions fail to win. A Touch Of Oscar came 4th at Clonmel he had Rueben James,Whatsyourstatus and the 3/1 winner Aforementioned in front of him while at Fairyhouse Silver Fox came in 3rd the 6/4 favourite was beaten by Fil The Power and the 3/1 winner Jason The Millitant. 

  Friday is another two meeting day with 8 at Gowran Park and 8 races at Dundalk. The feature race at Gowran Park is at 5.30 when 17 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mucklemeg Mares Flat Race. 8 of the 17 have won one or more races this year but 3 are in with a big chance. Eilise's A Lady has won both her races this year her last was at Galway in July where she came home 6 1/2 lengths in front of Hallowed Star and she will want to make it 3 wins here. Sheer Liss won her last race at Down Royal in August where she beat another of this races runners Lady Heath by 1 and a half lengths so it will be interesting to see their rivalry renewed in this one. The other with a chance is Purple Mountain who won her last race at Killanary 43 days ago and if she stays on well again she will challenge for the top prize. Others worth a look are Razzle Dazzle Love,Raven Rule and Monas Melody in this highly competitive listed contest.

  The days other feature race is at Dundalk at 6.45 where 9 go to post for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Star Appeal Stakes. The best horse in the race is Magnanimous who has won twice this year at Cork in early September where he beat Amber Kite by 2 lengths and at Listowel 10 days ago where he narrowly beat San Martino. Toshizou has had 1 win from 2 runs this year that came at Tipperary 18 days ago and if he puts in the same battling performance here he will be challenging for 1st. Deputy Sandy won on his debut at Naas in early September where a final furlong push got him past Southern Lights and he crossed the line in front by a head and he has a good chance here while Admiral Nelson last ran 54 days ago at the Curragh where he was 9th in the group 1 Keenland Stakes but dropping back down in class means he can make his presence felt. The other main challenger should be Zaffy's Pride who has had one win from 3 runs this year coming on this Dundalk course 2 weeks ago where he finished 3/4 of a length in front of Anjalawi so this shouldn't be a one horse race.

Big race predictions: 5.30 Gowran Park: 1: Eilise's A Lady. Dundalk 6.45: 5:Magnanimous.