1/8/21 Galway

 My Saturday pick Bolivar was a non runner. The big race was won by Crowns Major the 7/1 shot beat Longbourn by 2 lengths. 

 It's the final day of the Galway festival on Sunday with the highlight of an 8 race card coming at 3.15 when 19 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Ahonoora' Handicap. Soaring Monarch was at his best when winning at Roscommon 82 days ago,he has plenty more to offer having been lined up for this race so he gets the vote in what will be a competitive handicap. SirJack Thomas was a surprise 50/1 winner on this course just 5 days ago,he beat Quizical by 3 lengths in a strongly run race and he will be a threat again despite carrying a 7lb penalty. Lust picked up his best win at The Curragh 71 days ago,with his trainer having a decent spell he should go well again. The other challenger is Hightimeyouwon who last won at Cork in May and looked impressive when a very close second at The Curragh 2 weeks ago and he should give another good account here.

Big race prediction: 9: Soaring Monarch.

31/7/21 Galway

 It was another poor day on Friday which saw my pick Place Des Vosges come 9th,the 12/1 shot was prominent early but made no impression before the last. She weakened on the run-in allowing the 9/1 chance Jazzaway to win by a head. 

 Saturday is the penultimate day of the Galway festival with 8 races on the card and the highlight comes at 4.20 when 18 begin the Galway Shopping Centre Premier Handicap. Bolivar had a decent end to 2020 with a win at Killarney followed up by 2 seconds at Dundalk and at Naas. He wasn't disgraced when 6th in a listed race at The Curragh 59 days ago,he makes his handicap debut here and with lot's of potential still to show he gets the nod. Iowa picked up his first victory at Down Royal in June and he returned there to be a good 4th to Master Of Reality 8 days ago,he should definitely challenge being back in handicap company. Camorra was 3rd at Gowran Park when last seen back in early April,this race has been his target so a bold bid is likely. The other main challenger will be Baby Zeus who has one win from two runs this year that came at The Curragh in May and despite being 11th at Leopardstown 23 days ago he can definitely bounce back so deserves consideration. 

Big race prediction: 1: Bolivar.  

30/7/21 Galway

 Thursday wasn't a great day for my pick Winner Takes Itall who finished 6th. The 9/1 shot sat 10th at halfway but made some progress from 2 out. He was 5th after the last but had nothing extra dropping to 6th close to home. The race was won by Saldier who beat Milkwood by 2 lengths.

 Friday sees 8 more races at Galway where the main attraction surprisingly isn't the 6.15 it's actually the 5.30 when 23 line-up for the Guinness Handicap Hurdle. Place Des Vosges picked up her latest win in a hurdle at Listowel in June and was a very creditable 4th when last seen at Down Royal 42 days ago,she has more to offer and gets the vote here. Jazzaway got her career best win at Punchestown at the end of April, she held on to win by a short head and despite going significantly up in trip she can definitely challenge. Stratum is a decent dual purpose horse who was impressive when winning the Queen Alexandra Stakes at Royal Ascot last month and he is a threat on his return to hurdles. There are two others to look at,Black Mischief picked up his career best win at Newton Abbot 18 days ago by a massive 23 lengths and he should go well again while Visionarian looked good when winning at Down Royal 42 days ago. This longer trip may suit and bring out more improvement in him so don't be surprised if he wins.

Big race prediction: 7: Place Des Vosges. 

29/7/21 Galway

 The midweek race saw my pick Modus finish 3rd. The 20/1 chance was 6th at halfway, he was hampered 2 out and came under pressure entering the straight. He moved into 3rd a furlong out but kept on at the same pace allowing last year's 2nd Royal Rendezvous to go one better the 5/1 favourite beat Easy Game by a length. 

 Another day at Galway sees 8 races on Thursday where the main event comes at 6.15 when 21 line-up for the Guinness Galway Handicap Hurdle. Winner Takes Itall was useful on the flat in 2020 and easily came home by 4 1/4 lengths in a handicap hurdle at Bellewstown 26 days ago and he will definitely have a big say here. Willie Mullins has a good record in this race and one of his runners Ciel De Neige is the main threat,he last picked up a win at Limerick in December and was a good second at Punchestown when last seen at the beginning of May making him a big player. Call Me Lyreen picked up 3 wins from 5 runs last season and was a very good second at Punchestown in his last outing 93 days ago,he was unlucky that day only losing by a short head and he should be challenging again. The other one in the field to look at is Cape Gentleman who after a win at Kempton in late February went on to be an excellent 5th at Royal Ascot last month and another bold showing is expected here.

Big race prediction: 20: Winner Takes Itall.

28/7/21 Galway

 Tuesday was a poor day for my pick Mazagran who finished 11th. The 13/2 chance was towards the rear making some slight headway in the final furlong but he was never a danger. SirJack Thomas was a shock winner the 50/1 shot beat Quizical by 3 lengths. 

 Our third day at Galway sees 8 races with the main event being the 6.15 when 25 line-up for the Tote Galway Plate. Modus was 6th in this race in 2019 and after some good runs at Aintree he returned to Ireland to finish 3rd to Sole Pretender in the Grimes Hurdle at Tipperary 27 days ago,this will be his second run for new trainer Enda Bolger and he should go well. The Shunter has had a good year winning the Paddy Power Plate at the Cheltenham Festival then moving to Aintree to finish second in a grade one in April and his last run was a good third over hurdles at Punchestown in May making him the main threat. Top Moon didn't need to improve to win a handicap chase at Wexford at the beginning of this month,he beat Somptueux by 2 1/2 lengths that day and definitely deserves respect. Off You Go ran a rare mistake free race when winning a handicap chase at Leopardstown in February, his only other run this year was a respectable 6th in the Irish Grand National and he can't be ruled out. The best of the Willie Mullins runners is Royal Rendezvous who was 2nd in this race last year and set up another bid with a win at Ballinrobe in May so he shouldn't be overlooked. 

Big race prediction: 19: Modus.

27/7/21 Galway

 Monday saw my pick Coltor win,the 14/1 chance was 5th at halfway moving up to 3rd 2 out. He stayed on well in the final furlong leading close to home,he beat Foveros by 3/4 of a length. 

 Tuesday sees 8 races on day 2 at Galway with the highlight coming at 6.15 when 21 start the Colm Quinn BMW Mile Premier Handicap. Mazagran was a comfortable 3 length winner on his Irish debut at Limerick 3 weeks ago,he definitely has more to offer and gets the vote in this competitive race. Blue For You won a race at this festival a year ago and picked up his career best victory in a handicap at Leopardstown 19 days ago making him a serious challenger. Horoscope has had 2 wins from 6 runs this year his last coming at Killarney earlier this month,he was 1 1/4 lengths in front there and should go well again. The other main threat should be Tauran Shaman a course and distance winner back in 2019 who picked up his latest victory at Leopardstown in May,he returned there to be a good second to Mosala in the 'Nasrullah' Premier Handicap 19 days ago. He arrives here in good form and will definitely challenge. 

Big race prediction: 10: Mazagran. 

26/7/21 Galway

 After no action on Sunday racing returns on Monday with day one of the summer festival at Galway where the main event comes at 6.15 when 23 line-up for the Connacht Hotel Premier Handicap. Coltor is a useful jumps winner who was a good fifth in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival. His one run on the flat this season saw him finish a disappointing 14th at The Curragh in May but he still has lot's of potential and should be given another chance here. Run For Mary picked up her career best win on her season return at Limerick 38 days ago and definitely deserves consideration. Hook Up has been a good winner over hurdles and looked solid when 3rd on her Irish flat debut at Killarney in May and she can definitely build on that here. The one who completes the shortlist is Zoffanien another useful hurdler who has won twice on the flat in France during his career and should do well on this his Irish flat debut. 

Big race prediction: 13: Coltor. 

24/7/21 Result

 In the only meeting of the weekend my pick Duvet Day was 2nd,the 11/4 shot was 3rd 2 out moving up to 2nd just over a furlong from the end. Despite keeping on well in the closing stages she made no impression on the winner Mise Le Meas the 9/4 favourite comfortably came home by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 After Saturday's action there is no racing in Ireland on Sunday but meetings do take place at Uttoxeter, Pontefract and Musselburgh for your entertainment. The next Irish meeting is day one of the summer festival at Galway on Monday my preview of that will be up on Sunday.

24/7/21 Gowran Park

 The week didn't end well for my picks,at Down Royal Barbados was 5th. The 11/2 chance was prominent and soon sat 2nd. However he found himself short of room and squeezed out just over 2 furlongs from the finish and with no further impression made the 2/1 favourite Master Of Reality won by 1 3/4 lengths. At Cork Strong Johnson was 4th. The 10/1 shot was on terms from 2 out but was passed inside the final furlong keeping on without challenging,the race was won by Frenetic. 

 After a busy week we have a quiet weekend with just one meeting that's at Gowran Park on Saturday where the highlight of an 8 race card is the opener at 1.40 when 15 begin the Irish EBF Auction Series Fillies Maiden. Duvet Day made a promising start when second on debut at Limerick 36 days ago,she was unlucky only losing by a head and with improvement likely she should go one better here. Mise Le Meas looked good on debut finishing 3rd at The Curragh at the end of last month and with her trainer having a good spell she looks like the main challenger. Be Adored was a very good 5th on her first run at Leopardstown just 9 days ago and she will definitely contest this race so shouldn't be overlooked.  Of the rest 9 are on debut and of those Redbud looks good this half-sister to Lost Eden can definitely make her presence felt.

Big race prediction: 2: Duvet Day.

23/7/21 Down Royal + Cork

 Thursday was a really good day for my picks. At Leopardstown Prettiest was 4th,the 10/11 favourite sat 5th 3 out. She made no impression from over a furlong out keeping on at the same pace with the 16/1 chance Agartha winning by 2 3/4 lengths. My other two picks won,Point Lonsdale continued his unbeaten 2021 with an easy victory the 1/8 favourite beat Maritime Wings by 3 lengths. At Limerick The Getaway Star travelled smoothly the 8/11 favourite stayed on well to beat Benbulben Boy by 3 1/2 lengths. 

 A busy end to the week sees meetings at Down Royal and Cork with 2 big races,the first is the 6.35 at Down Royal where 6 line-up for Her Majesty's Plate. Barbados didn't show his best form when 8th in the Queen Alexandra Stakes at Royal Ascot last time out however he should be judged on his creditable 3rd in a Premier Handicap at The Curragh the outing before and he gets the vote here. Master Of Reality won this race last year and made a promising reappearance when 2nd at Naven in April but he went backwards when coming only 5th at Leopardstown last time out, however he is the type to bounce back making him the main challenger. The other on the shortlist is Federica Sophia who won at Leopardstown early in her career and returned there to finish a very good second in the Stanerra Stakes 15 days ago and she definitely deserves respect. The main  event at Cork comes at 6.45 when 12 start the Doneraile (Premier Handicap.) Strong Johnson was a very good 6th to Mooneista in the group 2 Sapphire Stakes at The Curragh 6 days ago,he has a good chance here back in Handicap company and will do well. That's Mad won over this course and distance back in September,his last outing was a career best victory at Bellewstown 22 days ago. He is improving all the time and is a big player. The other to put on the shortlist is Jungle Jane who was a good second to That's Mad at the beginning of this month,she should continue to progress well putting her firmly in the mix. Of the others Provocateuse should be looked at she has 2 wins from 4 runs this year her latest was at The Curragh 5 days ago and she should give another good account of herself here as she looks for her hat-trick win.

Big race predictions: Down Royal: 2: Barbados  Cork: 6: Strong Johnson. 

22/7/21 Leopardstown + Limerick

 The midweek meeting at Naas wasn't a bad one for my picks,in the 5.20 Dickiedooda was 5th. The 11/2 chance was 6th a furlong out and kept on at the same pace In the closing stages while at the head of the field Wren's Breath won beating More Beautiful by 3/4 of a length. At 5.50 Pennine Hills came 2nd. The 10/3 shot led from 2 out but was passed 1 1/2 from the finish,she had nothing more to give allowing Ladies Church to win by 2 1/4 Lengths. 

 It's another two meeting day on Thursday with 8 races at both Leopardstown and Limerick with 3 feature attractions,the first at Leopardstown is the 5.00 when 5 begin the Frank Conroy Silver Flash Stakes. Prettiest made all the running on debut at Naas at the end of May to win by 3/4 of a length. She followed that up with a very good 4th in the Albany at Royal Ascot and with more progress likely and stepping up to 7 furlongs here she looks like the one to beat. The main challenger is Juncture who showed promise when 2nd on debut at Naas in April and moved up a gear when an impressive 3 1/4 length winner on this course when last seen 49 days ago she will definitely improve and is dangerous. The other places will be fought out by the rest and of those Seisai tops the list,after finishing 3rd on debut here in June she moved onto Gowran Park where she didn't need to improve to pick up her first win and she could cause an upset in this race. The other main contest at Leopardstown Comes at 5.30 when 5 line-up for the Japan Racing Association Tyros Stakes. Point Lonsdale is looking for a hat-trick after a win on debut at The Curragh and a 1/2 a length victory in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot 33 days ago and he is very hard to look past here. Maritime Wings won on debut on this course 6 weeks ago he will definitely improve and is a threat. The other one in the field to look out for is Unconquerable who has run well recently following up two second place finishes with a win in a maiden at Naas at the beginning of this month. His yard is also in good form so he can't be overlooked here. The big race at Limerick starts at 6.10 when just 4 go to post for the Caherconlish Hurdle. The Getaway Star is a useful hurdler who after winning here in May was a very creditable 2nd at Kilbeggan 46 days ago and she should return to winning ways. The main threat is Ornua who was at his best when winning a chase at Tramore 18 days ago and he goes on the shortlist on his return to hurdles.  Benbulben Boy won on his hurdles debut on this course when last seen at the end of May,he is the type to improve and can definitely challenge. The other one in the field is the outsider Tintean Fein who after pulling up 3 out on debut here back in December could only finish 14th on his season return at Cork 2 weeks ago,he goes up in trip but will need the others to have a bad day to even challenge. 

Big race predictions: Leopardstown: 5.00: 3: Prettiest  5.30: 3:Point Lonsdale 

                                       Limerick: 3: The Getaway Star.

21/7/21 Naas

 On Tuesday my pick Demi Plie was a non runner. The race at Ballinrobe was won by the 5/1 chance Oscer Romero who beat Rain In Spain by 6 1/2 lengths. 

 We go to Naas on Wednesday with 2 feature races,the first is the 5.20 when 14 start the Yeomanstown Stud Irish EBF Stakes. Dickiedooda is a useful filly who was a respectable 2nd to Keep Busy in a listed race at Ayr 29 days ago. She has been knocking on the door recently and with her yard in good form she should go one better here. Teresa Mendoza was below form when finishing 7th at Deauville 10 days ago but her 2nd placed finish in the Dubai Duty Free Dash Stakes at The Curragh last month gives her a good chance. The other on the shortlist is Back To Brussels who hasn't had a bad year so far her last race was a 2nd at Tipperary 21 days ago and she can definitely put in a good performance here making her presence felt. Looking at the rest Elizabethan is one to keep an eye on she was a creditable 7th to Pearls Galore in the Brownstown Stakes at Fairyhouse 10 days ago. She might need to find a bit more here but you can never rule out an Aiden O'Brien runner. The other big race on the card comes at 5.50 when 6 line-up for the Arqana Irish EBF Marwell Stakes. Pennine Hills is a promising horse who made a winning debut at Fairyhouse 2 weeks ago,she is likely to improve and should take the step up to a higher level in her stride. Ladies Church picked up her first victory at Tipperary 21 days ago and with her stable in good form she should definitely challenge here. The other main threat should be Sophie's Star who has won twice this year at Thirsk and at the beginning of this month at Beverley where she returned to finish a respectable 2nd 8 days ago and has to be taken seriously here, 

Big race predictions: 5.20: 6: Dickiedooda  5.50: 5: Pennine Hills.

20/7/21 Ballinrobe

 The week kicked off with my pick Ides Of August coming 2nd,the 9/4 joint favourite travelled well and led from 1 1/2 furlongs out. He was strongly pressed inside the final furlong and was passed close to home with nothing extra TakeachanceJimmy won by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Tuesday sees a second day at Ballinrobe where the highlight of an 8 race card comes at 5.25 when 15 begin the Boylesports Handicap Hurdle. Demi Plie wasn't seen at her best when 3rd at Punchestown 50 days ago,despite that she can show how good she is here giving her a shout. Rain In Spain has been on the up recently culminating in her career best win at Cork at the beginning of this month and she is definitely well in the mix. Oscer Romero was a course and distance winner in May easily passing the post 9 1/2 lengths in front. He was a creditable 6th in his last race at Limerick 54 days ago despite being unsuited by the way the contest developed and he is on the shortlist here. The other one to look at in this competitive field is Falak who has won twice at Dundalk this year and was a very respectable 7th when last seen at Down Royal 32 days ago and he can definitely make his presence felt.

Big race prediction: 6: Demi Plie.

19/7/21 Ballinrobe

 In the 3 big races on Sunday it was another mixed bag of results. At The Curragh Order Of Australia won,the 2/1 favourite led early and was 2 lengths clear from 2 out. He kept on well in the final furlong beating Njord by 1 1/4 lengths. In the other Curragh race Create Belief was a non runner, the race was won by the 11/8 favourite Insinuendo. Over at Tipperary Popong was 3rd,the 7/2 favourite chased the leaders and sat 3rd at the 7th. She made no further impression from 2 out allowing the 13/2 chance Funky Dady to win by 4 1/2 lengths. 

 We begin another week with 7 races at Ballinrobe on Monday where the highlight is the 5.55 when 6 start the Kpmg Handicap. Ides Of August was a very creditable 5th when last seen at Leopardstown 11 days ago,on form another bold showing is likely and dropping slightly down in trip should suit too. Still Standing was a course and distance winner early on in his career one of six victory's on the flat. He was 8th at The Curragh 22 days ago but with his trainer going well he should bounce back here. The other main challenger should be Ideal Pal another course and distance winner who was a very good 6th in a novice hurdle at Leopardstown on his last outing at the end of December. He goes back down in trip on this his return and he should go well. The other three Bowerman, TakeachanceJimmy and Thaleea have outside chances but will need the others to falter to pick up a win.

Big race prediction: 4: Ides Of August. 

18/7/21 The Curragh + Tipperary

 Saturday was a good day for my pick as Snowfall completed the English-Irish Oaks double. The 2/7 favourite was 4th at halfway and travelled well to lead from 2 out. She soon moved clear staying on strongly and easily coming home by 8 1/2 lengths. 

 It's a very busy Sunday with 8 races at both The Curragh and Tipperary with 3 standout contests. The first at The Curragh is the 2.10 when 8 begin the Romanised Minstrel Stakes. Order Of Australia won on this course back in September and was suited by the drop in trip when winning the Breeders Cup Mile at Keeneland in November. He wasn't at his best when finishing 8th in the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot on his season reappearance but he is definitely the one to beat here. Njord was a very good second to Kinross in the John Of Gaunt Stakes at Haydock when last seen 50 days ago and he will go well again making him one of the main challengers. The other one should be Ace Aussie who has run well in two big races at Leopardstown this year a 2nd in the 2000 Guineas trial in April and a 3rd in the Amethyst Stakes in May. He has the potential for better and can't be ruled out. The other big race at The Curragh comes at 3.55 when 8 start the Kilboy Estate Stakes. Create Belief has won on this course already this year before producing her career best win in the Sandringham at Royal Ascot 30 days ago. She was a comfortable 5 1/2 lengths in front there and should take some stopping here. Angel Power is a smart filly who picked up her hat-trick win in the Darley Pride Stakes at Newmarket back in October. This is her return after 8 months off but she should go well. Insinuendo is the other big player she was a group 3 winner at Naas in May and then went on to be a good 4th to Thundering Nights in the Pretty Polly Stakes on this course 21 days ago. She can do better and will definitely show that here putting her high on the shortlist. Over at Tipperary the highlight is the 4.40 when 12 line-up for the Tipperary Town Plate Handicap Chase. Popong ran well to finish 3rd on her return at Punchestown at the beginning of May but was a bit below form when 5th at Ballinrobe 54 days ago. The drop back in trip here should suit giving her the nod. Flamingo's Court picked up her career best win at Limerick 8 days ago easily coming home by 6 1/2 lengths and that impressive performance makes her the main challenger. The other threat will be Funky Dady who was a very good third when last seen at Wexford 16 days ago and if the pace is strong enough he is likely to be well involved. Of the others Optical Confusion is the one to look at his latest win was at Ballinrobe in May and he was a very creditable 5th at Wexford 16 days ago so he definitely can't be discounted. 

Big race predictions: The Curragh: 2.10: 1: Order Of Australia  3.55: 5: Create Belief 

                                        Tipperary: 3: Popong. 

17/7/21 The Curragh

 It wasn't a great end to the week for my picks. At Killarney Raya Time failed to finish,the 6/1 chance was tracking the leaders when he fell at the first. The race was won by the 10/1 shot Capuccimix who beat Everlastingpromise by 6 lengths. At Kilbeggan Streets Of Doyen was a non runner, Not Available won by 5 1/2 lengths. 

 There are 8 races at The Curragh on Saturday and the highlight at 3.25 is the big race of the weekend when 8 line-up for the Juddmonte Irish Oaks. It's hard to look past Snowfall who after winning the Musidora Stakes at York on her reappearance in May went on to win the English Oaks at Epsom by a massive 16 lengths. It's likely to be a quicker surface here but she should still win completing the Oaks double. Nicest was a winner on debut at Leopardstown a year ago and was very impressive when 3rd to Loving Dream in the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot last month,however she will only battle for the minor places here along with Divinely who was 4th in the same race at the Royal meeting and was well behind Snowfall in the Oaks before that. If your looking for an outsider then Willow fits the bill this useful filly was last in the Oaks but bounced back to win the listed Naas Oaks Trial 24 days ago. She came home by 1 1/4 lengths there and could easily capitalise on any weak performances. 

Big race prediction: 7: Snowfall. 

Either side of the Irish Oaks are some important races. At 2.20 6 start the Group 3 Anglesey Stakes where Beauty Inspire heads the field. Then at 2.50 8 begin the Group 2 Sapphire Stakes where Logo Hunter is looking for a hat-trick and at 4.00 19 line-up for the Scurry Handicap look out for Rough Diamond here.

16/7/21 Killarney + Kilbeggan

 Thursday saw a mixed bag of results. At Killarney Western Cowboy was 8th,the 7/2 favourite was not fluent and sat 6th approaching the straight. He was soon 5th but under pressure he made no further impression keeping on at one pace while upfront the 9/2 chance Thousand Tears won by 1 3/4 lengths. At Leopardstown Japan won,the 15/8 favourite was 3rd at halfway improving to 2nd just over 2 out. He led narrowly under a furlong out keeping on well and just about holding on to win by a short head.

 The week ends with 8 races at both Killarney and Kilbeggan. The big race on the final day of the July festival at Killarney is the 4.00 when 11 begin the Boylesports Handicap Chase. Raya Time has been in good form this year his best performance was a win in a novice chase at Wexford 2 weeks ago,another bold showing is likely here making him tough to beat. Le Musigny was a very good second on his season return at Punchestown 48 days ago,his stable is on a good run and he should go well again. The other Henry De Bromhead runner with a good chance is Arvico Bleu who was much improved when winning at novice chase at Clonmel when last seen 35 days ago,despite this being a tougher looking field he can't be overlooked. Of the rest keep an eye out for Valdieu he was a respectable fifth at Roscommon at the beginning of June, he drops significantly down in trip here meaning he could have a part to play. At Kilbeggan the main event comes at 7.05 when just 5 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase. Streets Of Doyen was a useful hurdler last season winning 4 times before just missing out in two grade one's finishing 3rd in the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham and 4th in the Sefton Novices Hurdle at Aintree. He returns to chasing here after a break and he gets the nod. Tullybeg picked up 2 wins from 5 runs last season and was going well until he fell at the 8th on his fences debut at Punchestown 47 days ago,he definitely has more to offer and should show that here. Not Available won over hurdles on this course back in April and returned to match his best fences finish when 3rd a week ago and it wouldn't be a surprise if he was challenging again.

Big race predictions: Killarney: 5: Raya Time  Kilbeggan: 4: Streets Of Doyen. 

15/7/21 Killarney + Leopardstown

 On Wednesday at Killarney my pick Queen's Speech was 6th. The 16/1 chance tracked the leaders in the early stages and challenged on the straight. She kept on well without matching the major players inside the final furlong with the 2/1 favourite Mehnah winning by 3/4 of a length. 

 It's another busy day on Thursday with 8 races at both Killarney and Leopardstown. The main event on day 4 of the July festival at Killarney is the 2.45 when 16 begin the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. Western Cowboy picked up his first win in a novice hurdle at Limerick 49 days ago. He goes up in trip to make his handicap hurdle debut and with his yard in good form he is a big player here. Thousand Tears looked good after 10 months off when he finished 4th in a hurdle at Cork 6 days ago,he is competitive on form and is a threat. The other one on the shortlist is Whatucallher who picked up her career best win at Punchestown 46 days ago but only after being promoted after crossing the line second. Despite that on form she is a danger and definitely can't be overlooked here. At Leopardstown the big race comes at 6.00 when 9 start the group 3 Green Room Meld Stakes. In this field only one standsout Japan who dispite being a bit below form in two group one's a third in the Coronation Cup at Epsom in June and a sixth to Wonderful Tonight in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot 26 days ago he did drop down to a group 3 to win the Ormonde Stakes at Chester on his season return in May and he should win again here. Snapraeterea last won at Naas in May and was a very good 4th to Mohaafeth in the Hampton Court Stakes at Royal Ascot and he is one of the main threats. The other one is Visualisation who has picked up 3 wins from 6 runs this year his last was at The Curragh in May that was followed up with a good second in a handicap at Royal Ascot 26 days ago and he should go well again.

Big race predictions: Killarney: 5: Western Cowboy  Leopardstown: 1: Japan.

14/7/21 Killarney

 Tuesday didn't go well for my picks. At Downpatrick Marajman was 4th, The 8/11 favourite led early but dropped to 2nd before the 3rd. He made no impression from 2 out dropping to 4th in the closing stages. The race was won by the 4/1 chance Buddy Rich. At Killarney Sweet Molly Malone was 5th,the 11/4 favourite was in midfield but made some headway 4 out. She dropped towards the rear from 2 out but kept on well inside the final furlong however she was never on terms allowing the 100/30 shot The Blue Brilliant to win by 3/4 of a length.

 Wednesday is day 3 of the July festival at Killarney and the highlight of an 8 race card is the 5.55 when 17 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Cairn Rouge Stakes. Queen's Speech was an easy 5 length winner on debut at The Curragh in November and she returned there to finish 7th in the Athasi Stakes on her reappearance 72 days ago. She performed better then the result suggests fading in the final furlong after leading for a long way and is definitely worth another look here. Mehnah is a promising filly who just failed to beat Keeper Of Time in the 1000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown at the beginning of April losing by a head. Despite being off 94 days and having a wide draw here she should still be respected. The other on the shortlist is Holly Golightly who picked up her first career win at Gowran Park in May and was a very good second in a handicap at The Curragh when last seen 53 days ago. There is definitely more to come from her and she should show that here.

Big race prediction: 13: Queen's Speech. 

13/7/21 Downpatrick + Killarney

 The week began with something that hasn't happened in a while both my picks winning. At Dundalk The Highway Rat chased the leaders challenging 1 1/2 furlongs out. He led from a furlong out keeping on strongly in the closing stages and the 3/1 joint favourite beat Lipizzaner by 3 1/4 lengths. At Killarney La Petite Coco led early but lost it by halfway. She narrowly led again 2 out and this time it was decisive,the 4/9 favourite increased her advantage a furlong out comfortably beating Kalapour by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 Tuesday sees two meetings with 7 races at Downpatrick and 8 at Killarney. The feature contest at Downpatrick is the 1.55 when 6 begin the Plus 2 Print Remembering Tony Oakes MBE Hurdle. Marajman is a useful hurdler who improved on his comeback run when 2nd at Ballinrobe 49 days ago and a repeat performance can see him go one better here. Buddy Rich didn't need to be at his best to win a novice hurdle at Kilbeggan at the end of April, he was a comfortable 5 1/2 lengths in front that day and despite being off since then he should be in the mix. The other main challenger should be Gladiatorial who got off the mark when winning on this course in May,he followed that up with a good second in a novice hurdle when last seen at Cartmel 45 days ago. He goes down in trip here but he has progressed well recently and should definitely be respected. The big race on day 2 of the July festival at Killarney comes at 7.25 when 12 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. Sweet Molly Malone picked up her career best win on her handicap debut at Leopardstown 33 days ago,she goes up in trip and with better to come she will take plenty of stopping here. Maoilin last won at Dundalk in March and was 4th behind Sweet Molly Malone at Leopardstown. She also goes up in trip and is the main threat. The other one to look at is The Blue Brilliant who has already picked up one win from three runs this year that came in a maiden at Fairyhouse at the end of May,she makes her handicap debut here and with her yard in good form another bold run is likely meaning she can't be overlooked. 

Big race predictions: Downpatrick: 4: Marajman  Killarney: 6: Sweet Molly Malone. 

12/7/21 Dundalk + Killarney

 The weekend came to a close on a bright note for my picks. At Fairyhouse Pearls Galore won,the 15/8 favourite was 4th at halfway and moved into the lead a furlong out. She kept on well to assert her authority in the final 100 yards winning by 2 lengths. At Sligo Turkestan was 2nd,the 3/1 favourite travelled smoothly and was 3rd 2 out. He ran well on the run-in moving up to 2nd but he never reached the winner Goulane Chosen who came home by a length. 

 A busy week begins with 8 races at Dundalk and 7 at Killarney. The main event at Dundalk is the 1.00 when 8 start the Hollywoodbets Donates To Irish Horse Welfare Trust Handicap. The Highway Rat has had 2 wins from 5 runs this year his last was over this course and distance in May,he was a good second when last seen at Cork 54 days ago and he is a major player. Dandy Spirit last won here back in December and was a very creditable 4th at The Curragh 15 days ago making him a threat. Strong Johnson was a disappointing 13th at The Curragh 2 weeks ago but his near miss at Tipperary at the beginning of June where he was 2nd by a head puts him on the shortlist. Looking at the rest Jungle Jane stands out she has also won over this course and distance and was a very good second at Bellewstown 11 days ago and based on recent form she should go well again here. At Killarney the big race comes at 7.15 when just 5 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race. La Petite Coco has had a good year so far picking up her first win on this course in May,she was a very good second to Willow in a listed race at Naas 19 days ago and with more progression likely she is the one to beat. Kalapour is a promising horse who after winning on his season return at Down Royal in June was 4th at Limerick 24 days ago,his yard is in good form and he should go well again. The other main challenger should be Espouse she has won one of her two runs this year that came at Naas in May,her other race was a fifth placed finish at Limerick in mid June. She goes significantly up in trip here and definitely shouldn't be ruled out. 

Big race predictions: Dundalk : 5: The Highway Rat  Killarney: 4: La Petite Coco.

11/7/21 Fairyhouse + Sligo

 Saturday was another mixed day for my picks. At Navan Capitulation was 9th,the 13/2 chance was chasing the leaders in the early stages but she made no impression from just over a furlong out weakening inside the final furlong with the 5/2 favourite Daisy Peers winning by 3 lengths. At Limerick Eagle Moon was 2nd,the 3/1 joint favourite was prominent early and sat 3rd 3 out,he had a narrow lead 2 out but lost it before the last. He had nothing further to offer in the final 100 yards allowing the 6/1 shot Grange Walk to win by 3 1/2 lengths. 

 We round off the weekend with 8 races at both Fairyhouse and Sligo,the main event at Fairyhouse is the 3.20 when 14 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Brownstown Stakes. Pearls Galore is a smart filly who was a respectable third to Real Appeal in the group 3 Ballycours Stakes at Leopardstown when last seen 31 days ago and she should be up there again here. Soul Search was a very good 4th in the same race and that form is likely to continue with her yard having a good spell making her the main threat. Valeria Messalina is a useful filly who won this race 12 months ago however she was a bit below form when 7th in the Duke Of Cambridge Stakes at Royal Ascot 25 days ago. Her form before that makes her competitive and she completes the shortlist. In a big field the other one to look at is Galtee Mist she had picked up 2 wins from 5 runs this year her latest came at Gowran Park in June,she failed to make it a hat-trick when finishing 13th at The Curragh 15 days ago but despite that she will bounce back and can't be overlooked. Over at Sligo the big race comes at 3.40 when 13 start the Sligo Park Hotel Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. Turkestan has yet to get off the mark but he was a very good second at Kilbeggan 35 days ago and he should go one better here. Bridge Native picked up 4 wins from 10 runs last season but was a below form 4th when last seen at Bellewstown just 8 days ago however he is still the main challenger. The other threat is Lusis Naturea who won his last hurdles race at Navan in mid June he followed that up with a creditable 4th in a handicap at Bellewstown 9 days ago. He switches back to hurdles here and should go well.

Big race predictions: Fairyhouse: 4: Pearls Galore   Sligo: 13: Turkestan. 

10/7/21 Navan + Limerick

 The week came to a close with results at both ends of the scale. At Cork Peregrine Run was 2nd,the 5/6 favourite settled behind the leaders and was 2nd before the straight. He moved into a narrow lead 2 out but was passed at the last he made no impression òn the run-in allowing Nibblers Charm to win by 3 1/2 lengths. At Kilbeggan Kruzhlinin failed to finish. The 7/1 chance was at the rear of midfield at halfway, he was hampered 4 out and had nothing extra pulling up on the run-in. The race was won by the 20/1 shot The Big Lense.

 The weekend begins with 8 races at both Navan and Limerick. The feature at Navan is the opener at 1.00 when 11 start the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. Capitulation showed promise when 4th on debut at Down Royal in June,she built on that with a very good third at Bellewstown just 9 days ago. She goes down in trip here and with further improvement likely she gets the nod. Special Power was an encouraging third on the same Bellewstown card 9 days ago,that was his debut and he will definitely improve here making him the main threat. Joe Masseria looked good when 3rd in a maiden at Roscommon at the end of May,he goes down in trip but should challenge. The other one to keep an eye on is Daisy Peers she has been excellent on both her starts a 2nd at Roscommon in May and a 3rd at Leopardstown when last seen in June so she should definitely be in the mix again. The big race at Limerick comes at 1.20 when 16 begin the Adare Beginners Chase. Eagle Moon is a fair chaser who was a respectable 6th in a handicap chase at Tramore 6 days ago,his yard is having a good spell and he should go well here. Grange Walk last picked up a victory at Tramore back in September and he returned there to finish 4th on his fences debut 36 days ago he is definitely open to improvement making him the main danger. Gelee Blanche was 6th in that same Tramore maiden at the beginning of last month,that was also her fences debut having won a hurdle on the same track in April. She should progress and can't be overlooked. Of the others Archies Charm looks good he won on this course in November and despite being a below form 4th in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown 40 days ago he makes his chase debut so shouldn't be ignored. 

Big race predictions: Navan: 6: Capitulation  Limerick: 5: Eagle Moon.

9/7/21 Cork + Kilbeggan

Thursday was another poor day with my pick Baby Zeus coming 11th. The 3/1 favourite was always towards the rear sitting 10th a furlong out. He made no impression inside the final furlong and was never a factor leaving the 8/1 chance Mosala to win by 3/4 of a length. 

 There are two meetings on Friday with 7 races at Cork and 8 at Kilbeggan. The feature contest at Cork is the 6.50 when 6 begin the Thank You To All The Frontline Workers Hurdle. Peregrine Run is a smart chaser who has won  over this course and distance in his career,he was a very creditable 8th on his last appearance in a handicap at The Curragh 13 days ago and making the switch from the flat to hurdles here means he should add another win to his record. Wonder Laish was a good 3rd at Cork on his reappearance back in April but his follow up run was a let-down when he finished 18th in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown 73 days ago,he goes up in trip here which makes him a leading player. Nibblers Charm is the other main threat he was a course winner back in 2019 but he was a disappointing 9th on his return at Limerick 21 days ago,that run was needed and he should be better here he also makes the switch to hurdles meaning he can't be ruled out. At Kilbeggan the big race comes at 7.35 when 17 start the AXA Smart Farm Insurance Midlands National Handicap Chase. Kruzhlinin picked up one win last season that came at Navan in March and he was a creditable 2nd in a handicap at Killarney when last seen 60 days ago and he should go one better here. The winner of that race Shady Operator goes again,his follow up was a below form 6th to Agent Boru at Ballinrobe 45 days ago but despite that he is on the shortlist. Freewheelin Dylan won this race last year and was a shock 150/1 winner of the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse in April he followed that up with a good 4th in a handicap at Punchestown at the beginning of May and he can definitely make his presence felt here.

Big race predictions: Cork: 4: Peregrine Run  Kilbeggan: 14: Kruzhlinin. 

8/7/21 Leopardstown

 I think it's fair to say we can forget about Wednesday as my pick Sh Boom was 9th,the 4/1 chance stumbled leaving the stalls and was last approaching the straight. She kept on at the same pace without threatening while upfront the 33/1 shot Nebo beat Ice Cold In Alex by 1/2 a length. 

 Thursday takes us to Leopardstown where the highlight of an 8 race card is the 6.40 when 17 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Nasrullah ' (Premier Handicap.) Baby Zeus was impressive on his first run for Willie Mullins winning a handicap at The Curragh 46 days ago and he is hard to look past here. Mirann was 1/2 a length behind in that Curragh handicap and went on to finish a creditable 4th at Royal Ascot 20 days ago,we didn't see the best of him there but despite that another bold run is likely making him the main threat. Silaiyli picked up his career best win in a maiden at Down Royal in mid June,he makes his handicap debut here and with further improvement expected he can definitely challenge. Turan Shaman has picked up one win from three runs this year that came on this course back in May,he returned to finish a creditable third here 35 days ago so he can't be taken lightly. Of the rest keep an eye out for Flying Visit,Georgeville and Irish Poseidon all of whom could seize on any poor performances.

Big race prediction: 6: Baby Zeus.

7/7/21 Fairyhouse

 Tuesday's race saw my pick Banbridge win,the 1/1 favourite was 2nd early and disputed the lead from the 3rd. He led from the 7th and despite being joined from 3 out he pulled away again to lead staying on well on the run-in to win by 4 3/4 lengths. 

 Wednesday sees 8 races at Fairyhouse where the feature contest comes at 6.55 when 16 start the Discover Boyne Valley Handicap. Sh Boom has picked up one win from three runs this year that came at Gowran Park 24 days ago,he won by a head getting on top in the final strides and another big run is expected here. Malaysian last picked up at win at Cork back in September and she was fifth in her last outing at Leopardstown at the beginning of last month, her stable are having a good spell and dropping back to 7 furlongs should suit making her the main challenger. Sindhia achieved her career best win at The Curragh just 11 days ago,she performed well to come home by 1/2 a length only taking the lead in the final 50 yards. She has been on the up recently and that should continue here. Looking at the rest of the field Is That Love stands out his last two wins were both at the end of May on this course and at Roscommon,he was a respectable 5th when last seen at The Curragh 10 days ago and he shouldn't be ruled out here.

Big race prediction: 5: Sh Boom.

6/7/21 Roscommon

 After a day of rest the action returns with 8 races at Roscommon on Tuesday, the highlight is the 5.25 when 7 start the Ballyleague Rated Novice Hurdle. Banbridge made a winning start over hurdles at Punchestown 38 days ago,he was a strong 6 1/2 lengths in front there and going up in trip gives him a good chance to make it 2 wins from his last 2 starts. Palm Beach is useful over hurdles picking up his first win at Kilbeggan in May following three second place finishes. However he didn't look right when pulled up at Ballinrobe later the same month but he has been given time to recover from that and should challenge here. The best of the rest is Buddy Rich who didn't need to be at his best when comfortably winning a maiden hurdle by 5 1/2 lengths at Kilbeggan 74 days ago,this is a slightly stronger field so a bit more will be needed but he can't be ruled out. 

Big race prediction: 1: Banbridge. 

4/7/21 Results

 Sunday was a mixed day for my picks. At Limerick Privilege was a non runner the race was won by Mazagran the 8/1 shot came home by 3 lengths. At Tramore Ferdia won,the 3/1 chance was 3rd 3 out and moved into the lead at the last. He kept on well on the run-in beating Schone Aussicht by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 After the weekend action there are no meetings in Ireland on Monday but racing does take place at Ayr,Nottingham and Worcester with evening cards at Windsor and Ripon. The next Irish meeting is at Roscommon on Tuesday my preview of that will be up on Monday night. 

4/7/21 Limerick + Tramore

 Saturday was a good day for my selections. At Naas Geocentric was 2nd,the 11/4 shot was prominent throughout and kept on well inside the final furlong without reaching the winner Hadman the 2/1 favourite won by 3/4 of a length. At Bellewstown Run For Oscar came 3rd,the 5/2 favourite sat in midfield after a mistake at the 1st however he made headway and sat 3rd 2 out he kept on at the same pace allowing the 6/1 chance Winner Takes Itall to come home by 4 1/4 lengths. 

 We round off the weekend with 7 races at both Limerick and Tramore. The main event at Limerick is the 3.20 when 9 begin the Annacotty Rated (Turf.) Privilege is a progressive horse who opened his account when winning a maiden at Tipperary 33 days ago,he showed some pace late on and with more to offer he looks like the one to beat. Belmont Avenue kicked off his season with a win at Dundalk towards the end of April, he should improve further here and is the main threat. Punk Poet picked up his latest win on this course in June but he could only finish 20th in a handicap at The Curragh when last seen 9 days ago,however this useful horse is the type to bounce back and he can definitely do that here. The other challenger should be Exuma who returns to the track where he picked up his only career win over this races distance 22 days ago so he should definitely be respected. Over at Tramore the big race is the 3.40 when 6 start the Register For August 14th Style Evening At tramoreraces.ie Rated Novice Hurdle. Ferdia won a hurdle on debut at Ballinrobe in May and followed that up with a good second to Enniskerry at Roscommon 26 days ago and on form he has the best chance here. Schore Aussicht is looking for a hat-trick after wins at Limerick and a novice hurdle at Downpatrick 21 days ago and he is definitely one to consider. Raven Rule picked up one win from three runs last season and has progressed this campaign culminating when easily coming home by 12 lengths for her career best win at Punchestown 35 days ago,she has been on the up recently and that should carry on here. The other three shouldn't trouble the main runners but if you're looking for an outsider then Golfe Clair is the one,he won on his hurdles debut at Clonmel 23 days ago but he will definitely need a big run here.

Big race predictions: Limerick: 9: Privilege  Tramore: 4: Ferdia.

3/7/21 Naas + Bellewstown

 It was a mixed end to the week for my picks. At Bellewstown Eurocrat was a non runner the race was won by the 11/10 favourite Tuwaiq. At Wexford Somptueux was 2nd,the 6/1 chance chased the leaders from 4 out moving into 3rd after jumping the last. She went into 2nd in the final 110 yards with the 100/30 favourite Top Moon holding on to win by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 Yet another busy weekend begins on Saturday with 7 races at Naas and 8 at Bellewstown,the feature contest at Naas comes at 1.20 when 9 start the Irish EBF Median Sires Series (Turf). Geocentric makes her debut here a sister to useful winners No Leaf Clover and To Wafij makes this notable newcomer one to take a chance on. Hadman picked up his first victory in a maiden at Gowran Park 20 days ago,he just about held on there winning by a head making him a strong challenger. Up Above delivered his best performance when 3rd at The Curragh just 8 days ago and off the back of that he should be a threat again here. The other one worth a look is Mary Pickersgill who was 6th over this course and distance on debut 10 days ago,she should progress further and definitely needs consideration. Over at Bellewstown the highlight of the card is the 5.35 when 18 line-up for the Bar One Racing Bellewstown Handicap Hurdle. Run For Oscar last picked up a victory at Fairyhouse back in November and looked good when finishing 6th on his season return at Down Royal just over 2 weeks ago,he should be sharper having had that run and can definitely make it 2 wins from his last 3 starts here. Winner Takes Itall is another one who should build on his season reappearance, he finished 10th at Punchestown 35 days ago but putting that run to one side he definitely deserves consideration. The other main challenger is Wouldn't You Agree he made a winning start over hurdles at Listowel in June coming home by 1 1/2 lengths and he built on that with a good second in the Boylesports Novice Hurdle at Wexford last time out and he is definitely a danger. 

Big race predictions: Naas: 2: Geocentric  Bellewstown: 3: Run For Oscar. 

2/7/21 Bellewstown + Wexford

 A new month began well for my picks. At Bellewstown Bellabel was 5th,the 15/8 favourite was 2nd early and was still in touch sitting 3rd inside the final furlong. However she made no further impression dropping to 5th close to home allowing the 11/2 chance Tosen Lydia to win by 1 3/4 lengths. At Tipperary Sole Pretender won,the 5/4 favourite was prominent all the way and led from 4 out,despite coming under pressure in the final couple of furlongs he stayed on well on the run-in beating Darasso by 2 lengths. 

 A busy Friday sees 8 races at Bellewstown and 7 at Wexford, the main event at Bellewstown is the 4.55 when 10 begin the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. Eurocrat made a promising debut when third in a Maiden at Leopardstown 49 days ago,he definitely has more to offer and gets the nod here. Tuwaiq makes his debut here being a half-brother to winners Pallas Lord and The Trendy Man make this interesting newcomer a challenger. Mount Fairweather was a good 5th on debut at Listowel at the beginning of last month, he goes up in trip and with improvement likely he is another threat. Of the rest five make there first starts. Decorated Guest,Nawraq, Octola,Pride Of Derry and Wellswort all look good on paper so could spring a surprise and none of them can be ruled out. The big race at Wexford comes at 7.45 when 9 line-up for the Good Enuf To Eat Catering Handicap Chase. The two main challengers arrive here after both falling in the Ladbrokes Handicap Chase at Punchestown 33 days ago,Somptueux was looking to build on a victory at Fairyhouse in April when he fell 3 out and if he has recovered well he should come home ahead of Optical Confusion who after winning at Ballinrobe in May fell 2 out but should challenge again here. The other one to keep an eye on is Top Moon who was 2nd in a handicap chase at Leopardstown in February and despite being pulled up 4 out in the Irish Grand National he bounced back to finish a respectable 7th at Punchestown 64 days ago,he goes back up in trip and definitely has the ability to finally win a handicap chase and there is no reason why he can't do that here.Looking at the rest watch out for Funky Dady who's last win was a hurdle at Punchestown in October, he makes his handicap chase debut and could easily be first past the post.

Big race predictions: Bellewstown: 1: Eurocrat  Wexford: 3: Somptueux.