1/6/21 Tipperary

 Monday can be written off as a poor day for my picks. At Punchestown Lunar Display was 5th,the 3/1 chance made a mistake at the 4th but recovered to make some headway. However another mistake 3 out saw her make no further impression and the 2/1 favourite The West Awaits easily won by 13 lengths. It was even worse at Roscommon where Dancing Approach was 6th,the 11/4 favourite chased the leaders early but was soon in midfield. She was outpaced in the final 2 furlongs allowing the 11/1 shot Pineapple Express to win by 1 1/2 lengths.

 After a busy Bank Holiday a new month begins with 8 races at Tipperary on Tuesday where the highlight is the 5.40 when 8 start the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race. Harmony Rose won at the third attempt when taking a maiden at Cork 13 days ago she definitely has more to come and can show that here. Loveday was a 1 3/4 length second in that Cork race and has the chance to go one better and get off the mark. The other main  threat is It'll Do My Day who won by a short head at Cork in April but his two runs at The Curragh since have seen him finish 4th and 7th,despite those which were in stronger contests he should be in the mix here. Of the rest Twilight Jet is one to look at he was 5th in the Marble Hill Stakes at The Curragh when last seen 10 days ago and could go well again while two are on debut. Shoebox King and Walking On Clouds both look good on paper and shouldn't be overlooked. 

Big race prediction: 7: Harmony Rose.

31/5/21 Punchestown + Roscommon

 Sunday wasn't a bad day for my picks. At Punchestown Point Aven was 4th,the 5/1 chance was 3rd entering the straight but he made no impression on the leaders and dropped to 4th leaving the 14/1 shot Powersbomb to win by 3/4 of a length. At Navan Bear Story was 2nd,he went off at 5/1 and disputed the lead early. He sat 2nd under 2 furlongs out but he kept on at the same pace inside the final furlong and was beaten by Star Harbour who came home by 3 1/4 lengths. 

 Another bank holiday Monday sees 8 races at both Punchestown and Roscommon. The big race at Punchestown is the 5.30 when 7 begin the River Morell Mares Novice Hurdle. Lunar Display is a useful hurdler who picked up her career best win at Tipperary 11 days ago and she will be in the mix again with a repeat performance. Manitopark Aa was a good 4 length winner of a mares maiden at Cork earlier this month and is definitely a challenger here. The West Awaits was a very creditable 3rd to Gauloise in a hurdle on this course when last seen at the end of April, she goes back up in trip here and has a good chance. The other one to keep an eye on is Wat Ua Doin who's career best win was a novice hurdle at Wexford 15 days ago,she is likely to improve further and is definitely a threat. The main event at Roscommon comes at 7.45 when 14 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. Dancing Approach picked up her latest win at Leopardstown in April and she returned there to pick up a creditable 3rd 17 days ago and she is expected to perform well again here. Persian Queen was a good third in a handicap on this course 20 days ago and another good run from her should not be ruled out. Pachmena was only second by a neck to Celtic Crown in a handicap at Gowran Park at the beginning of this month,a return to one mile four is a plus and she should be respected. The other danger is Mk Drama who's best recent performance was a creditable 2nd on this course 20 days ago,she goes back up in trip here and is definitely worth a look.

Big race predictions: Punchestown: 3: Lunar Display  Roscommon: 3: Dancing Approach. 

30/5/21 Punchestown + Navan

 The weekend kicked off with my pick Le Musigny coming 2nd. The 11/5 favourite was 4th at halfway but improved to press the leaders from 2 out. He sat 2nd before the last and had every chance in the closing stages but the 11/4 shot Tiger Voice held on to win by 3/4 of a length. 

 It's a busy Sunday with a double header which sees 8 races at both Punchestown and Navan. The main event at Punchestown is the 2.05 when 13 start the Ladbrokes Handicap Chase. Pont Aven was 2nd over this course and race distance on his last run at the end of April,he was 1 3/4 lengths behind Foxy Jacks that day and should go one better here. Dame De Compagnie won the Coral Cup at the Cheltenham Festival in 2020 and followed that up with a win at Ayr at the beginning of this year,her two runs since then saw her unseat her rider in the grade one Scilly Isles Novices Chase at Sandown and a ninth place finish at this year's festival. Despite that she could run well on her way to a possible run in this year's Galway Plate. Somptueux ran well to pick up a win in a novice chase at Fairyhouse in mid April,he faces a stiffer test here but could still challenge. The other one who could do well is Rapid Response who won a handicap chase on this course when last seen in April and could be the surprise package. The big race at Navan comes at 4.05 when 9 line-up for the Royal County Premier Handicap. Bear Story was 2nd to derby hopeful Sir Lamorak in a handicap at Leopardstown at the beginning of April, that was a tough task but he should build on a solid performance here. Baton Rouge was a good winner at Dundalk in late March and a second at Naas when last seen earlier this month and he should run well despite being top-weight. The other challenger could be Earl Of Tyrone who's best recent performance was a 4th on this course back in March. His last run was a 7th in a handicap at Leopardstown 21 days ago but despite that result he still has a slight chance. 

Big race predictions: Punchestown: 3: Point Aven  Navan: 3: Bear Story.

29/5/21 Punchestown

The week ended with my pick Velocidad winning. The 17/2 chance travelled well and sat 3rd 2 out. She moved into the lead 1 1/2 furlongs from the finish,she moved clear but had her advantage reduced close to home. She kept on well eventually winning by 1/2 a length. 

 There are 7 races at Punchestown on Saturday where the highlight is the 1.50 when 9 line-up for the Ladbrokes Handicap Chase. Le Musigny has showed promise in his last 3 runs including a 5th place finish at Navan when last seen 6 months ago,this is his handicap chase debut and he is hard to look past. Benruben was a good 5 1/2 length winner at Down Royal 26 days ago and he can definitely go well again here. Kildorrey was a good 4th over this course and race distance at the end of April and also won here in 2018 so he is definitely a threat. Zarkareva was a course winner back in October and she returned 30 days ago but was a well beaten third to Energumene in the Ryanair Novices Chase however this is her handicap chase debut so she can't be overlooked. The other one who could challenge is Andalusia who was a creditable fifth over this course and distance 30 days ago and she should give a good account of herself. 

Big race prediction: 5: Le Musigny. 

28/5/21 Fairyhouse

On Thursday my pick Western Cowboy won. The Evens favourite was prominent throughout and led from 2 out. He beat Mars Harper by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 The end of another week sees 8 races at Fairyhouse where the main event is the opener at 1.15 when 14 begin the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. There is plenty of potential in this field especially from Velocidad who makes her debut here. This half-sister to Oliver Hardy and Dejla should be a useful newcomer and get off the mark for trainer Joseph O'Brien. Eurocrat looked promising on debut when finishing 3rd at Leopardstown 2 weeks ago and he should be the main challenger. Doitforandrew was a good third when last seen at Cork 9 days ago and another good performance here puts him in the mix. The other two to keep an eye on both have their first runs,Tut Tut is a half-sister to 3 useful winners including Mr Top Hat and Exoplanet Blue so she should do well while Mist Of The Deep has Travel On as a half-sister and with here stable having a good spell she deserves respect. 

Big race prediction: 5: Velocidad. 

27/5/21 Limerick

 My selection for Wednesday Baseman didn't race as the meeting at Gowran Park was called off. After an 8am inspection the track was found to be waterlogged and unfit to race,the meeting has yet to be rescheduled. 

 After Wednesday's postponement Thursday sees 8 races at Limerick where the highlight is the 7.40 when 15 line-up for the Connolly's Red Mills Irish EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle. Western Cowboy is a promising horse who was a good second in a novice hurdle at Downpatrick when last seen 20 days ago,with further progress expected he can go one better here. Mars Harper was a good winner on debut at Ballinrobe in August he followed that up with a 3rd at Punchestown in October, he made his hurdles debut on his return 17 days ago finishing 6th at Killarney and with improvement likely he should challenge. Another threat is Hesamanofhisword who was 2nd at Leopardstown on his last run over hurdles in March,he returns after 3 runs on the flat and shouldn't be ruled out. Of the rest keep an eye out for Fox Watch who was 3rd on debut at Fairyhouse 89 days ago,that performance showed some promise and he could well improve on that here. There are also 3 who make their first appearances. Kalanisi Dubh,Marble City and Moral Of The Story all have good chances.

Big race prediction: 3: Western Cowboy.

26/5/21 Gowran Park

 It was another mixed day for my picks on Tuesday. At Tipperary Brides Hill didn't finish,the 9/2 chance made no impression and was pulled up just before the 2nd last with the 66/1 shot Aoibhe's Beau easily beating Rock On Seamie by 12 lengths. At Ballinrobe Popong was 5th,the 5/2 favourite was towards the rear at halfway,she made some headway sitting 3rd 5 out. However she lost two places in the closing stages with Agent Boru winning the 12/1 chance beat The Dabbler by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Gowran Park stages Wednesday's meeting where the highlight of an 8 race card is the 6.10 when 19 start the Holden Plant Rentals Maiden. Baseman made a highly promising debut when finishing 2nd at Tipperary back in September, the ground at The Curragh didn't help him when he finished 15th when last seen 6 months ago but he definitely has a good chance to bounce back here if he's back on track. The main challenger should be Ahandfullofsummers a useful filly who was a good 5th to Dubai Fountain in the Cheshire Oaks at Chester 21 days ago,she drops back to a mile here and with her yard having a good spell she sets a high standard. The other challenger is Vinland who makes his debut,this half-brother to French winner Anadara is a notable newcomer who looks good on paper and can't be overlooked. Of the others the one to look at is Got The Moves a promising horse who was 9th in a maiden at Leopardstown 17 days ago,she had to pick her way through the field in that race and she is open to more progress here.

Big race prediction: 4: Baseman.

25/5/21 Tipperary + Ballinrobe

 The week began with my pick Humm Baby coming 2nd. The 4/1 shot was disputing 2nd 3 out and was on terms by the next,she was narrowly ahead just after the last but made no further impression inside the final furlong with the 15/2 chance Strange Notions winning by 6 1/2 lengths. 

 A Tuesday double header sees 8 races at both Tipperary and Ballinrobe. The feature at Tipperary is the 3.45 when 17 start the Tipperary Town Handicap Hurdle. Brides Hill is a promising horse who was a very creditable 2nd at Ballinrobe 21 days ago,plenty more is expected and she can definitely pick up her first win here. The winner of that Ballinrobe race Listenheretomejack is scheduled to go again here but he was also entered for the 6.00 at Ballinrobe on Monday night (he finished 8th.) If he does run in this race then he should be the main challenger. Magnor Glory picked up his career best win in a handicap hurdle at Wexford just 9 days ago coming home by a massive 16 lengths and he definitely enters calculations. The other challenger should be Weihnachts who picked up 2 wins from 6 runs last season his best was a handicap chase at Gowran Park 84 days ago,he switches from chasing to hurdles here and should not be overlooked. The big race at Ballinrobe is the 7.45 when 15 begin the Mchale Mayo National Handicap Chase. Popong was a creditable 3rd in a handicap chase at Punchestown 24 days ago and on form she definitely has a good chance here. Shady Operator picked up his career best win at Killarney 15 days ago and he's definitely on the shortlist. The other danger is Optical Confusion who last won on this course at the beginning of this month cruising to a 6 length victory,he is looking for his hat-trick win here after being first past the post at Fairyhouse in April and he can definitely do it. The other main threat is Definite Soldier who was much improved when winning at Kilbeggan 11 days ago,he was 1/2 a length in front that day and another strong performance could see him home.

Big race predictions: Tipperary: 11: Brides Hill  Ballinrobe: 6: Popong. 

24/5/21 Ballinrobe

 On Sunday there was a mixed bag of results for my picks. In the 2.40 Broome was 2nd,the 10/11 favourite disputed the lead early and was 2nd after 2 furlongs. He led 2 furlongs out but was joined inside the final 150 yards by Helvic Dream and the 8/1 shot won by a short head. In the Irish 1000 Guineas Pretty Gorgeous was 7th,the 15/8 favourite was 4th at halfway and sat 3rd 1 1/2 furlongs out. She had no extra inside the final furlong with the 14/1 chance Empress Josephine beating Joan Of Arc also by a short head.

 Another packed week of racing begins with seven races at Ballinrobe on Monday where the highlight comes at 5.30 when 9 start the Monroe's Live John Monroe Memorial Mares Handicap Hurdle. Humm Baby was a very creditable 4th when last seen at Punchestown 23 days ago and she has to be taken seriously here. Highstreet Roller was a good second on her handicap hurdle debut at Downpatrick just over two weeks ago, with her yard in good form she can definitely go one better. Gelee Blanche picked up her last win in a maiden hurdle at Tramore in April but was a below form 11th at Punchestown later the same month however she makes her handicap hurdle debut here and can definitely bounce back. The other main threat is Le Hachette who's latest win was a hurdle on this course back in August, she was a bit below form when 6th at Galway in October but this being her first race in 7 months means she deserves consideration. 

Big race prediction: 1: Humm Baby.

23/5/21 The Curragh

 In the Irish 2000 Guineas my pick Lucky Vega was 4th. The 7/2 favourite was towards the back at halfway but moved up into 6th early in the final furlong, he kept on moving up to 4th with the 8/1 chance Mac Swiney beating Poetic Flare by a short head.

 Guineas weekend at The Curragh ends on Sunday with two group one's, the first is the 2.40 when 8 start the Tattersalls Gold Cup. Broome is a smart horse in brilliant form he made it 3 out of 3 this year by taking the Mooresbridge Stakes on this course 20 days ago,he beat Helvic Dream (who goes again here) by 2 lengths that day and he should win his first group one here. Serpentine won the Derby at Epsom in 2020 but his two runs since in the Grand Prix De Paris at Longchamp and the Champion Stakes at Ascot have seen him finish 4th. However he should do better as a 4 year old and could definitely challenge on this his return. The other Aiden O'brien runner Tiger Moth is also one to look at he was a very good second in the Melbourne Cup at Flemington and his last run at Leopardstown in September saw him win the 'Is it 2021 yet' Stakes by 4 lengths. This is his first run in 6 months and if he can cope with the drop in trip he could be a threat. At 3.15 14 line-up for the Tattersalls Irish 1000 Guineas. Pretty Gorgeous won on this course back in August and improved further when winning the Fillies Mile at Newmarket when last seen in October, she gets the nod on form despite being off 7 months and will be difficult to beat. Joan Of Arc picked up her career best win in the 1000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown 2 weeks ago and she should definitely progress further here. Fev Rover is a smart filly who was a very good third to Mother Earth in the English version of this race at Newmarket 21 days ago and she definitely shouldn't be taken lightly. The other one who could challenge is No Speak Alexander who picked up her career best win in the Athasi Stakes on this course on her season return 20 days ago and she will definitely have a chance if she can take going up in trip in her stride. 

Big race predictions: 2.40: 1: Broome   3.15: 9: Pretty Gorgeous. 

22/5/21 The Curragh

 It wasn't a great end to the week for my picks.At Downpatrick Dalileo was 6th,the 7/4 favourite chased the leaders early but was 6th 4 out. He made some headway sitting 4th 2 out but a slight mistake at the last meant he made no impression on the run-in with the 25/1 shot Ringhill Lady winning by 1 1/2 lengths. At Wexford Meticulous was a non runner leaving the 11/8 favourite Merry Doyenne to win by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 It's Irish Guineas weekend and if The Curragh passes a 7.30 am inspection on Saturday morning (parts of the track are waterlogged with a further 5mm of rain forecast.) then the big race will be the 3.20 when 12 start the Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas. Lucky Vega is already a group one winner on this course taking the Phoenix Stakes back in August and he made an excellent return finishing 3rd in the English 2000 behind Poetic Flare at Newmarket at the beginning of this month. He will be a big horse over a mile this season and has a very good chance back on home soil. It's only been 3 weeks since Poetic Flare's victory at Newmarket but he goes again here. He only managed to finish 6th in the French Guineas last weekend but a quick turnaround means he can't be dismissed. La Barrosa won a maiden at Ascot and a group 3 at Newmarket last season and made a good return finishing 2nd in the Craven also at Newmarket in April. He definitely has more to offer and can go well here. Trainer Aiden O'brien has 3 runners and all have a good chance. Wembley won at Roscommon in August and had 2 good group one seconds in the Vincent O'brien on this course and the Dewhurst at Newmarket before finishing a disappointing 11th in the English 2000,he will do better here and challenge. Van Gogh picked up a good win in the mud at Saint-Cloud in October and was the best of his yards finishers at Newmarket 3 weeks ago coming 8th,he has plenty more to offer and can't be discounted. The other O'brien runner is Battleground who after winning the Chesham at Ascot and the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood went off as favourite for the Guineas at Newmarket on his return however he didn't look at home there and finished 13th,he will do better here and could spring a surprise. 

Big race prediction: 5: Lucky Vega. 

21/5/21 Downpatrick + Wexford

 On Thursday my pick Oneknightmoreihope was 4th. The 5/2 favourite was close up with the leaders until a slight mistake 3 out. He was a challenger on the straight and had every chance on the run-in,he kept on well without matching the main protagonists close to home with the 7/1 chance Fest Deiz beating Isotope by a head.

 It's a double bill to end the week and if both tracks pass early morning inspections there will be 8 races at both Downpatrick and Wexford. The main event at Downpatrick is the 3.05 when 16 begin the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. Dalileo showed improvement when 3rd on his handicap hurdle debut at Ballinrobe 17 days ago and he can definitely go better here. Natural Breeze was a good winner in a hurdle at Clonmel in April but couldn't follow that up when he was 6th in a handicap hurdle at Tramore 32 days ago however he shouldn't be taken lightly as he could definitely bounce back. Shean Glory was a respectable 6th when last seen at Limerick 36 days ago so she definitely can't be ruled out. The other main player will be Highstreetfashion who was a good 4th at Limerick in mid April but he will need a better jumping performance in the closing stages to challenge in this race. The feature contest at Wexford is the 6.30 when 9 start the Support The Irish Injured Jockeys Fund Hurdle. Meticulous looked useful when winning over hurdles at Cork 13 days ago,he sets the standard here and should be difficult to beat. Tullybeg is the main threat he doubled his tally over hurdles with a victory at Down Royal at the beginning of this month and could easily win again. The other challenger should be Wearapinkribbon who was a comfortable winner on his hurdles debut at Tramore back in October, despite finishing 10th on his season return at Punchestown at the end of April he is open to progress and will be a threat. 

Big race predictions: Downpatrick: 1:Dalileo  Wexford: 3: Meticulous. 

20/5/21 Tipperary

 Wednesday's pick Amalfi Coast won,the 10/11 favourite made all the running but was strongly pressed by Diamant Damhsa in the final furlong. Despite going all out in the closing stages he only just about held on winning by a head. 

 There are 8 races at Tipperary on Thursday where the main event is the 3.45 when 19 start the Junction Handicap Hurdle. Oneknightmoreihope last won at Naas in early December and he was a very creditable 2nd in a handicap hurdle at Clonmel a week ago and he should go one better here. Groveman picked up his career best win at Cork 12 days ago,the increase in trip suited him that day and with this race over the same distance he should have more to offer. The other main threat is Isotope who was a very creditable 7th in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown 22 days ago,this field looks more competitive for him and he can definitely make his presence felt. The other two worth a look are Humm Baby who was a course and distance winner a year ago and a very good 4th at Punchestown 19 days ago so he definitely enters calculations as does Rebel Early who picked up her last win at Navan in March and was a respectable 6th when last seen at Punchestown at the beginning of this month so don't rule either out.

Big race prediction: 16: Oneknightmoreihope.

19/5/21 Cork

 Tuesday saw differing fortunes for my selections with one winner and a non runner. The victory came at Sligo where So I Told You was 2nd 3 out and on terms before the Straight. She soon led and stayed on well easily coming home by 5 lengths. At Limerick Winner Takes Itall didn't take part due to the ground with the 2/5 favourite Antey winning by 5 1/2 lengths. 

 The midweek action comes from Cork where the feature race is the 2.05 when 12 begin the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. Amalfi Coast is a promising horse who was 2nd in a maiden on this course 12 days ago,he moves back up to 6 furlongs here and looks like the one to beat. Impeachd Alexander makes her debut here,this half-sister to Dandy Man looks very interesting on paper and could challenge. Arewecrystalclear showed promise when finishing 5th on debut at Naas 11 days ago,she can definitely do better and can show that here. Cailin Cliste was third in her last run at Dundalk a week ago,she was 7 1/2 lengths behind the top two there but can definitely improve and be a threat. Of the rest six make their debuts. Atia Rose,Beerenberg, Diamant Damasa, Distinct,Play By The Rules and Yokkell could all be challenging for the top spots so don't overlook them.

Big race prediction: 1: Amalfi Coast.

18/5/21 Sligo + Limerick

 After no action on Monday racing returns in Ireland on Tuesday with 7 races at Sligo and 8 at Limerick,the main event at Sligo is the 3.45 when 11 begin the Money Back On All Sligo Races In Boylesports Shops Handicap. So I Told You picked up her career best win on this course on her season return 16 days ago,she has plenty more to offer and could be the one to beat. Hamley was a very creditable 2nd in the same handicap on this course at the beginning of this month and is the main threat again. Insignia Of Rank was a good third in a novice hurdle when last seen at Ballinrobe 32 days ago,he is a useful flat horse and should be respected. The other one to look at is Dedillon she has picked up 2 wins from 6 runs this year her last was at Limerick in April, her last run was a creditable 5th in a handicap at Gowran Park 2 weeks ago and going significantly back up in trip gives her a good chance. The big contest at Limerick is the 5.10 when 12 start the Kilmallock Beginners Chase. Winner Takes Itall has been a good winner on the flat and over hurdles his last was a handicap at Dundalk back in November,this is his first run for 142 days and he should make an impact on his chase debut. Antey is a winning hurdler who was a below form 8th in a handicap chase at Punchestown 18 days ago in a race where his jumping let him down but if he addresses that he has a good chance. The other one who will challenge is Hazran who won a handicap on the flat at Killarney just a week ago,he hasn't finished both his runs over fences although his first one at Thurles in February saw him show promise challenging for 2nd before he fell 3 out and he should improve here.

Big race predictions: Sligo: 2: So I Told You  Limerick:9: Winner Takes Itall.

16/5/21 Results

 The Three big races on Sunday saw my picks all finish in the top 5. At Naas Contarelli Chapel was 4th,the 2/7 favourite was 2nd 2 out but she soon had no extra dropping to 3rd in the final furlong and with one pace in the last 100 yards she finished 4th with the 50/1 chance Hermana Estrella winning. In the other race at Naas Mooneista was 3rd,she challenged the leaders from 2 out and was on terms just over a furlong out. She gained a narrow lead and kept on well however she came close to a rival in the closing stages and despite crossing the line 2nd she was demoted to 3rd. Over at Wexford Great Bear was 5th,the 5/4 favourite was prominent and was 3rd before a mistake 3 out. He was 4th entering the straight but made no impression with the 7/1 chance An Fraoch Mor winning by a neck.

 After Sunday's two meetings there is no Irish action on Monday however there are meetings at Carlisle, Ffos Las,Redcar, Leicester and an evening card at Windsor for your entertainment. The next Irish racing is at Sligo and Limerick on Tuesday my preview of those will be up on Monday night. 

16/5/21 Wexford + Naas

 The weekend began with my selection Wordsworth finishing 2nd. The 8/15 favourite led after 4 furlongs, he was pushed along in the straight and had a 2 length lead 2 furlongs out. He was pressed inside the final furlong and was passed in the closing stages by Sir Lucan the 11/2 shot won by a neck.

 A busy Sunday sees 2 meetings with 8 races at both Wexford and Naas. The big contest at Wexford is the 1.55 when 9 begin the Shamrock Enterprises Ltd Rated Hurdle. Great Bear is a useful hurdler who was a very good third at Punchestown when last seen 19 days ago,with a stable in good form he should go all the way here. Act Of God picked up his career best win at Cork back in July 2020,he still has more to offer and is the main challenger on this his first run in 9 months. The other threat could be Take All who was disputing the lead when he fell at the last in a handicap on this course 67 days ago,despite that he will be in the mix if he has recovered well. There are two feature races at Naas the first is the 4.10 when 7 start the Coolmore Stud Irish EBF Fillies Sprint Stakes. Contarelli Chapel looked good when winning by 5 1/2 lengths on debut on this course in April and with better to come she is the one to beat here. Freedom Of Speech was a good winner over this course and distance just 8 days ago,she is definitely well worth a look as is Quick Suzy who picked up her first win at The Curragh 13 days ago. She should progress here as she goes up in class. The other feature is at 4.40 when 9 line-up for the Goffs Lacken Stakes. Mooneista has picked up one win from three runs this year that came on this course 20 days ago when she beat Harry's Bar by 3/4 of a length and she can definitely win again here. Lipizzaner is a useful colt who picked up his last win at Doncaster in October, he was a respectable 3rd on his return at Navan 21 days ago and is on the shortlist. The other one to look at is A Case Of You who won by 3 3/4 lengths on his reappearance at Dundalk in March but he wasn't at his best when last in the 2000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown a month later a race won by Poetic Flare however he can bounce back here.

Big race predictions: Wexford: 2: Great Bear  Naas: 4.10: 1: Contarelli Chapel  

                                                                                             4.40: 7: Mooneista. 

15/5/21 Navan

 The week ended with neither of my picks finishing in the top 3. At Leopardstown Amhran Na Bhfiann was 4th. The 5/4 favourite was 2nd after 4 furlongs but dropped to 5th 3 out he made no further impression only improving to 4th in the closing stages, the 18/1 shot Emperor Of The Sun won by 3 1/2 lengths. At Kilbeggan Jack Holiday was 7th. The 4/1 joint favourite led early but was passed by the 3rd he made no impact from 2 out and saw the 28/1 chance Definite Soldier win by 1/2 a length. 

 The weekend begins with 8 races at Navan on Saturday where the highlight is the 4.15 when 6 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Yeats Stakes. Wordsworth showed promise when finishing 2nd on debut at The Curragh back in August and built on that with a 2 length victory on the same course when last seen 28 days ago,he should improve further going up in trip here and will be difficult to beat. The main threat should be Party House who looked useful when winning by a length on debut at Naas at the end of April and she should progress further here. Sir Lucan is the other main challenger he picked up his first win at Cork in October, his season return in a classic trial at Sandown saw him offer little as he finished 8th but that performance can be left behind as he goes up in trip and he has a good chance. The outsider of the bunch is Anner Castle who showed promise when finishing 4th on debut at Tipperary 25 days ago,he should improve but this won't be easy.

Big race prediction: 5: Wordsworth. 

14/5/21 Leopardstown + Kilbeggan

 Thursday saw my pick Coulonces finish 2nd. The 5/2 chance was 5th entering the straight and disputed the lead 2 out. She led at the last but dropped to 2nd on the run-in with the 25/1 shot Fort William winning by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 There are two meetings on Friday with 8 races at both Leopardstown and Kilbeggan, the main event at Leopardstown comes at 4.30 when 8 begin the Saval Beg Levmoss Stakes. Amhran Na Bhfiann was 3rd in the Derby at Epsom last year and was an easy 13 length winner on his return at Dundalk 23 days ago,he has plenty more to offer and is a big player here. Twilight Payment won over this course and distance back in June last year and was a respectable 3rd to Broome in the Mooresbridge Stakes at The Curragh on his reappearance 11 days ago and he can definitely be the main challenger. The other one to fear is Search For A Song a smart mare who was a very good second in the Long Distance Cup at Ascot when last seen in October and she should not be taken lightly here. The big race at Kilbeggan is the 7.25 when 13 line-up for the Follow Kilbeggan On Facebook Handicap Chase. Jack Holiday last won at Tramore in April but came up short in his hat-trick bid finishing a good second at Tipperary just 8 days ago and he should go well again here. Demain Des L'aube was a very good second on his return at Tramore at the beginning of April and if he reproduces that performance he has every chance of going one better. Steer Clear picked up his latest win at Leopardstown in March however he  wasn't at his best when finishing 6th at Fairyhouse a month later but that run can largely be forgotten and he has a good chance to show what he's capable of here.

Big race predictions: Leopardstown: 2: Amhran Na Bhfiann  Kilbeggan: 12: Jack Holiday. 

13/5/21 Clonmel

 My selection on Wednesday Heart To Heart was a non runner leaving the 4/1 chance Yet to beat the 1/1 favourite Orinoco River by a neck.

 8 races take place at Clonmel on Thursday and the highlight is the 4.35 when 9 start the Clonmel Racecourse Supporters Club Rated Novice Hurdle. Coulonces picked up her last win at Fairyhouse in April coming home by 2 1/4 lengths,she followed that up with a respectable 8th in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown 12 days ago and she has a very good chance here. The Cathal Don has had a good 2021 so far a third at Limerick on his return in mid April and a career best win at Kilbeggan at the end of the same month mean he is a big player in this one. The other in the field who should fight for the main places is Don Diablo a useful hurdler who didn't need to be at his best when winning a novice hurdle at Down Royal 10 days ago,a 3 1/2 length win that day means he definitely needs considering. The others will be fighting for the minor placings and of those Fort William looks the best,this fair chaser was pulled up in a handicap hurdle at Limerick 24 days ago but he goes down in trip here and could go well.

Big race prediction: 3: Coulonces.

12/5/21 Dundalk

 Tuesday wasn't a bad one for my selections. At Roscommon Cool And Clever won,the 10/11 favourite led early but was passed 2 out. He regained the lead and stayed on well inside the final 50 yards beating Sunset Shiraz by 1/2 a length. At Killarney Crowns Major was 4th. The 3/1 chance was 4th at halfway but improved to 2nd 5 out,he dropped to 3rd 3 out and had no extra,the 4/1 shot Chiricahua won by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 The midweek meeting takes place at Dundalk where the highlight is the 4.30 when 8 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden. Heart To Heart is an interesting newcomer who makes her debut here,the half-sister to group one winner Golden Horde looks the best on paper and will definitely go well. Another Aidan O'brien runner Yet also makes her debut here,this filly is a half-sister to Giant's Causeway and definitely deserves respect making her the main challenger. Orinoco River also has her first run here,one of her sisters is the runner-up in the 2019 Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies Donna Veloce which gives her appeal and she can take one of the minor places. The other one who could challenge is Cailin Cliste who was 4th in a maiden on debut at Naas 16 days ago,she should improve here and is definitely on the shortlist. Two others also have their first runs,Cuala Bula and Zoe's Power could both spring a surprise so don't rule them out. 

Big race prediction: 4: Heart To Heart.

11/5/21 Roscommon + Killarney

 The week didn't get off to the best start with my pick Fag an Bealach falling to finish at Killarney. The 5/1 chance was not fluent and was 14th after the 9th. She weakened after the 12th and was never a factor and she was pulled up before the 13th. The 4/1 joint favourite Shady Operator easily won by 6 1/2 lengths. 

 It's a Tuesday double bill with 7 races at Roscommon and 8 at Killarney, the big race at Roscommon is the 1.30 when 9 begin the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. Cool And Clever was a promising 4th on debut at Cork 38 days ago,he goes up in trip here and should be respected. Tumultuous also looked good on debut finishing 6th at The Curragh in mid April he can definitely improve and will be a player. Sunset Shiraz is an interesting newcomer who makes her debut here,this half sister to Elisaagain and Berkshire Rocco looks good on paper and can't be overlooked. The other one in the field to look at is Pilbara Gold who was 5th on debut at The Curragh just 8 days ago and should definitely have more to offer here. The main contest at Killarney comes at 8.15 when 11 start the Killarney Racecourse Thanking All Frontline Workers Turf Race. Crowns Major won on debut at Punchestown 2 weeks ago and is a leading contender here. Amhran Na Bhfiann was 3rd in the Epsom Derby last year and didn't need to be at his best when winning at Dundalk on his return 20 days ago he definitely has a good chance. The other challenger is Hook Up a promising filly who last won at Fairyhouse in November and was a good 6th to Gauloise in a hurdle at Punchestown when last seen at the end of April and she can't be ruled out.

Big race predictions: Roscommon: 5: Cool And Clever  Killarney: 8: Crowns Major. 

10/5/21 Killarney

 In Sunday's 4 feature races it was a mixed bag of results. At Leopardstown Ace Aussie was 3rd,the 7/4 favourite was 2nd entering the final furlong however he made no impression on the winner Maker Of Kings and slipped to 3rd in the final strides. In the Irish 1000 Guineas trial My Generation was 9th,the 15/2 shot was always at the rear of the field and kept on at one pace with the 11/4 favourite Joan Of Arc winning by 1 3/4 lengths. In the Derby Trial Bolshoi Ballet was an impressive winner,the 1/1 favourite beat Lough Derg by 6 lengths and immediately lept to the top of the Derby betting being quoted 7/4 favourite for the big race at Epsom next month. At Killarney Andratx fell 3 out with the 9/2 chance Jesse Evans winning.

 Another busy week begins on Monday with 8 races at Killarney where the main contest is the 7.10 when 18 line-up for the Gmhd Killarney National Handicap Chase. Fag An Bealach picked up 3 wins from 8 runs last season and was a creditable 10th at Punchestown just 9 days ago and she is expected to be well up there here. Shady Operator last won at Punchestown back in February but was a faller in a handicap chase at Downpatrick when last seen 50 days ago in a race won by Fag An Bealach. Despite that fall he is one of the main challengers in this one. Speak Easy was a good third at Fairyhouse in early April and going significantly up in trip here gives him a good chance. The other challenger is Space Cadet who was a below form 7th in his last outing at Punchestown 11 days ago,he goes down in trip here and will look to bounce back so he can't be overlooked. 

Big race prediction: 14: Fag An Bealach. 

This is my 250th post so a big thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read any of my posts and congratulations if any of my predictions have won you any money.

9/5/21 Leopardstown + Killarney

 It was another bad day for my selections on Saturday. At Cork Cot Knapping was 10th,the 18/1 shot didn't have a good run and after a slight mistake 5 out posed no danger and kept on at the same pace while up front the 13/8 favourite Manitopark Aa won by 4 lengths. In the big race at Naas Silence Please was a non runner the 15/2 chance Insinuendo won beating Thunder Kiss by 3/4 of a length. 

 Due to having no Internet connection all day on Saturday (it's just come back) I wasn't able to write a full preview for Sunday's action however I have still got picks for the four big races.

Leopardstown:

2.15: 6: Ace Aussie 

2.45: 8: My Generation 

3.15: 1: Bolshoi Ballet

Killarney:

3.30: 13: Andratx 

Hopefully I will be able to bring you a more comprehensive preview of Monday's action at Killarney on Sunday night.

8/5/21 Cork + Naas

 Friday showed that not every day can be a good one prediction wise so apologies if you backed either one today. At Downpatrick Paula's Prayer finished 10th,the 6/1 shot was in midfield from 3 out and that was as good as it got for her with the 11/1 chance Shopping Around winning by 3/4 of a length. It was even worse at Cork with Casanova finishing last,he led early but was passed just over two furlongs out and had nothing extra with Hightimeyouwon coming home by a head.

 Another busy weekend begins with 8 races at both Cork and Naas,the main event at Cork is the 1.50 when 18 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle. Cot Knapping unseated her rider 3 out on debut at Limerick 19 days ago,despite that she is definitely open to progress and with a clear round she has a big part to play here. Erins Benefit is a useful hurdler who was a below form 4th at Tramore in mid April,however she does have a good chance and could easily challenge. The other main threat is Manitopark Aa who was a very creditable 2nd in her last outing at Fairyhouse 25 days ago,she was beaten by 2 1/4 lengths but can still make her presence felt here. The big contest at Naas comes at 2.40 when 8 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Blue Wind Stakes. Jessica Harrington trained One Voice the winner of this race in 2020 and she can repeat that with Silence Please a smart filly who was a very good second to Tiger Moth in the Paddy Power Betting Shop Stakes at Leopardstown when last seen in September,she has plenty more to offer as a 4 year old and will be difficult to beat. Emaniya last won at Cork in August but was a disappointing last in the Flame Of Tara Stakes at The Curragh later the same month,however being off 8 months and going up in trip could help her improve. Insinuendo was 3rd on her season return at Tipperary 18 days ago she definitely needs a stiffer test and going significantly up in trip here means she can show improvement and challenge. 

Big race predictions: Cork: 2: Cot Knapping  Naas: 2: Silence Please.

7/5/21 Downpatrick + Cork

 At Tipperary on Thursday my selection Jack Holiday finished 2nd. The 10/3 favourite led from 4 out and tried to push on however he was passed just after the last and had no extra just about holding on for 2nd leaving the 33/1 chance Give Me A Moment to win by 2 lengths. 

 It's a busy Friday with 7 races at Downpatrick and 7 at Cork,the main contest at Downpatrick is the 3.20 when 15 begin the Itba Supporting Northern Breeders Mares Handicap Hurdle. Paula's Prayer was at her best when winning at Fairyhouse 24 days ago. She held on to win by a nose there and has to be taken seriously here. Kate ill Know was a winner on debut at Clonmel in March before finishing an excellent third at Limerick in mid April, she is open to progress but needs a stiffer test which she should get here making her a challenger. The other one to consider is Dreamingandhoping who picked up her career best win in a novice hurdle at Ballinrobe 21 days ago,she makes her handicap hurdle debut here and is well worth a look. The big race at Cork comes at 6.10 when 25 line-up for the Mallow Premier Handicap. Casanova looked as if he was back in form when 11th in a handicap at The Curragh 20 days ago,he was hampered that day but is still well worth considering. San Andreas picked up his latest win at Dundalk in February and was a good 4th in a handicap at Leopardstown when last seen at the beginning of April and is definitely in the mix here. Real Appeal picked up his career best win in that Leopardstown handicap 26 days ago,he came home by 1 1/2 lengths and should go well again. The other one with a good chance is Luke Short who was an excellent third behind Real Appeal at Leopardstown and should not be taken lightly here.

Big race predictions: Downpatrick: 5: Paula's Prayer  Cork: 10: Casanova. 

6/5/21 Tipperary

 On Wednesday it was a mixed day for my selections at Gowran Park. In the 5.30 Flor De La Luna finished 8th,the 3/1 favourite was bumped as she left the stalls but was soon chasing the leaders in 4th. She lost a place just before the straight and soon weakened,the 6/1 chance Mighty Blue won by 7 1/2 lengths. At 6.00 Empress Josephine was 2nd,the 3/1 shot was 4th early moving up to 2nd under 2 furlongs out however she made no further impression when her rider lost their whip and she ended up 2 3/4 lengths behind the winner Too Soon To Panic. 

 Thursday's action sees 7 races at Tipperary where the main contest is the 5.25 when 17 begin the Tipperary Racecourse Handicap Chase. Jack Holiday was a course and distance winner back in October and picked up his career best victory on his season return at Tramore 18 days ago and he should complete his hat-trick here. Bolbec last won at Cork back in 2018 but was a good third in the same Tramore chase that Jack Holiday won and a repeat performance will put him in the mix. The other threat is Broder who's last victory was over this races distance at Ballinrobe in the middle of 2019,he is another who was beaten at Tramore 18 days ago finishing 4th but he definitely has more to offer and can show that here. The one who could surprise them all is Cluan Dara who won a handicap chase at Clonmel in March and wasn't disgraced when finishing 4th at Limerick 39 days ago, this race should suit him better so he can't be overlooked. 

Big race prediction: 4: Jack Holiday. 

5/5/21 Gowran Park

 Tuesday saw results at both ends of the scale for my selections. At Gowran Park Mk Drama was 3rd, the 4/1 favourite was 8th at halfway but made headway to sit 5th just under a furlong out. He stayed on well to move into 3rd close to home with the 20/1 chance Celtic Crown winning by a head. At Ballinrobe Mon Storm was a non runner leaving the 11/2 shot Optical Confusion to win by 6 lengths.

 There is an 8 race card at Gowran Park on Wednesday with two feature contests,the first is the 5.30 when 9 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Vintage Tipple Stakes. Flor De La Luna was a good winner at The Curragh in October and made a promising return finishing 2nd to Moll at Cork 32 days ago. There is definitely better to come from this filly and she gets the nod here over stablemate Barrington Court who signed off with 2 wins at the back end of last year both at Naas,she could give even more this year starting with her hat-trick win here. The main threat to these two is Princess Zoe who made it 5 wins in a row when taking the Prix Du Cadran at Longchamp in October, she made a disappointing season return finishing 9th at Cork at the beginning of April but she should bounce back and can't be overlooked. The other big race on the card comes at 6.00 when 8 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Victor McAlmont Memorial Stakes. Empress Josephine impressed when making a winning debut at Naas at the end of March and despite finishing 10th in a 1000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown two weeks later she has lots of potential and going up in trip here gives her an excellent chance. Amma Grace is a useful filly who didn't need to be at her best to win at Leopardstown when last seen in October, she definitely has more to come and could pick up her second win in a row here. The other one to look at is Tartlette who has already picked up two wins at Dundalk this year and was 5th in the Park Express Stakes at Naas 38 days ago,she was unsuited by the drop in trip there and definitely needs considering. 

Big race predictions: 5.30: 4: Flor De La Luna  6.00: 7: Empress Josephine. 

4/5/21 Gowran Park + Ballinrobe

 First of all apologies for saying that Saturday was the end of the Irish jumps season it was just the end of Punchestown's until October. Today's card at Down Royal was the start of their new jumps season and there are more jumps meetings this week. Now to Monday's results and we kicked off the week with two winners. At The Curragh Broome came home by 2 lengths the 4/9 favourite beat Helvic Dream. While at Down Royal the 4/1 chance Benruben beat Thatsy by 5 1/2 lengths. 

 It's another double bill on Tuesday with 7 races at Gowran Park and 8 at Ballinrobe, the main event at Gowran Park is the 3.10 when 14 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. MK Drama was a winner over this course and distance back in October and was a very good third in a handicap at The Curragh when last seen 44 days ago and she gets the nod here. Sister Lola also enjoys Gowran Park having won here in April,she was a creditable 4th at Dundalk just over 2 weeks ago and is definitely a threat. Fearless Girl returns to the course where she was 3rd in a handicap 27 days ago,she goes back up in trip and is definitely on the shortlist. The other one with a good chance is Dedillon who has picked up 2 wins from 5 runs this year her best was at Limerick 10 days ago and she is looking for her hat-trick win here so is definitely in the mix. The big contest at Ballinrobe comes at 7.40 when 17 start the Supermac's Handicap Chase. Mon Storm was a creditable 9th in a handicap hurdle on this course 18 days ago,he makes his handicap chase debut here and shouldn't be taken lightly. Champagne Beauty put in a career best performance when winning at Wexford in early April and she is the main challenger here. Knockmoylan is a promising horse who was 10th in a novice chase at Gowran Park when last seen 63 days ago,he is capable of better and can show that in this race. The other danger is The Echo Boy who only lost by a short head to Champagne Beauty at Wexford and with a repeat run shouldn't be ruled out. 

Big race predictions: Gowran Park: 10: MK Drama  Ballinrobe: 4: Mon Storm.

3/5/21 The Curragh + Down Royal

 We ended the weekend with my selection Stellify finishing 3rd. The 5/1 chance was 8th at halfway but made headway to sit 3rd under a furlong out. She improved to 2nd in the final 100 yards,she stayed on well dropping to 3rd in the final strides. The 7/2 joint favourite Dazzling Darren won by 3/4 of a length. 

 A busy bank holiday Monday sees two meetings with 8 races at The Curragh and 7 at Down Royal,the main event at The Curragh is the 2.35 when 6 begin the Coolmore Sottsass Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes. Broome has looked back to his best with 2 wins so far this season at Naas on his return in March and the Alleged Stakes over this course and distance last month and he should give trainer Aiden O'brien another victory in this race. Twilight Payment won twice on this course in 2020 and was third in the Irish St Leger here in September. Despite going down in trip here he could still challenge. Of the others Saltonstall is the main threat he was a winner on this course early in his career but was a bit below form when finishing second in the Heritage Stakes at Leopardstown in mid April but going back up in trip here gives him a chance. The big race at Down Royal comes at 4.00 when 9 line-up for the Download The Boylesports App Handicap Chase. Benruben picked up 2 wins from 6 runs last season but was below form when finishing 7th on his return at Fairyhouse 29 days ago however this looks like an easier contest and he should win. Goulane Chosen was much improved when winning by 10 lengths at Cork 28 days ago and he definitely has a good chance in this one. The other one to keep an eye on is Itsalonglongroad who was a respectable 6th in a handicap at Dundalk when last seen 75 days ago he makes his handicap chase debut here and shouldn't be overlooked. 

Big race predictions: The Curragh: 2.35: 3: Broome  Down Royal: 4.00: 1: Benruben. 

2/5/21 Sligo

Saturday was yet another mixed day for my selections. In the 3.20 Concertista was 3rd,the 8/11 favourite was 4th after the 3rd she made some progress to sit third approaching the straight however she made no further impression with the 7/2 chance Stormy Ireland coming home by 7 lengths. The 4.00 saw Quilixios finish 7th,the 11/8 favourite sat 2nd early and was on terms from the 5th but he had nothing extra approaching the straight and he weakened,the 22/1 shot Jeff Kidder won beating Zanahiyr by 3/4 of a length. 

 After a busy end to the Irish jumps season it's time to concentrate solely on the flat and we begin with 7 races at Sligo on Sunday,the feature contest is the 3.25 when 17 begin the Kennedy's Bar Sligo Apprentice Handicap. Stellify last won at The Curragh back in November and was a very good second in a handicap at Gowran Park 24 days ago and another performance like that could see her go one better here. Dazzling Darren was a respectable third when last seen at Dundalk at the beginning of April, he goes back up in trip and could be the main challenger. The other one who could be a threat is Miss Louise who picked up her only career win at Dundalk in early 2019 however she was a creditable second in a handicap at Cork in her last run back in October, she makes her return here and should definitely be considered. An outsider to look at is Unanswered who was a good fourth in his last outing at Down Royal in September, this is his return after 8 months off and he shouldn't be overlooked although a big performance will be needed to challenge. 

Big race prediction: 1: Stellify.