1/10/21 Gowran Park + Dundalk

 Thursday turned out to be a good day for both my picks. At Clonmel Pretty Little Liar was 2nd,the 4/1 joint favourite was 4th before the 5th disputing the lead entering the straight. She was under pressure in 3rd 2 out but stayed on well to sit 2nd at the last,she pressed the leader on the run-in but could not catch Paddy Wickla who won by 1 1/4 lengths. At Bellewstown Earls was 4th,the 8/1 shot was 3rd at halfway but made no impression from a furlong out. He had no extra inside the final furlong allowing the 4/1 joint favourite Trueba to win by 1/2 a length. 

 We reach Friday and there are two meetings with 8 races at both Gowran Park and Dundalk with 4 standout contests. At Gowran Park the first big race is the 3.48 when 10 begin the BetVictor Pat Walsh Memorial Irish EBF Mares Hurdle. Getaway Gorgeous has run 4 times this year her best performance was a win in a listed race at Killarney back in May,her last run was a disappointing 13th at Galway but despite that she just about gets the nod ahead of The Getaway Star who's two wins this year have both come at Limerick, this included a hurdle when last seen in July and she should definitely go well. Of the others both Betty Zane and Derrinlaur Bill arrive after wins last time out and neither can be discounted. The other big race comes at 5.33 when 13 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mucklemeg Mares Flat Race. Hi Stranger was impressive when pulling clear to win at Down Royal 35 days ago and that run means she should be up to the task here. Molly's Glory was a little disappointing when 2nd on her hurdles debut at Downpatrick 54 days ago,she switches from hurdles to bumpers and has a good chance on last seasons form. The other one to look at is Flemencello who was sent off the 4/11 favourite when she won on debut at Kilbeggan at the beginning of August and she could take a jump forward here. At Dundalk their first big contest is the 5.15 when 14 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Legacy Stakes. Geocentric sets the standard after a second place finish in a Group 3 at The Curragh in August,she was a respectable 3rd to Vertiginous in a listed race at Ayr 2 weeks ago so gets the vote. Ladies Church wasn't disgraced when she finished 3rd behind Geocentric in the Round Tower Stakes 35 days ago and can definitely make her presence felt while Loveday is all about speed. She was a creditable 2nd to Head Mistress at The Curragh 49 days ago and a repeat will see her well in the mix. The other highlight at Dundalk comes at 6.45 when 12 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Star Appeal Stakes. Absolute Ruler arrives in good form a win on debut here in August was followed up by a good 3rd in the Champions Juvenile Stakes at Leopardstown on Irish Champions Weekend making him the one to beat. Snaffles easily won a maiden by 5 lengths at Down Royal last time and should definitely challenge with the other on the shortlist being Corviglia. She has won twice this year at Leopardstown and Roscommon and was a very good 3rd in the Ingabelle Stakes last time and should go well.

Big race predictions: Gowran Park: 3.48: 1: Getaway Gorgeous  5.33: 1: Hi Stranger 

                                       Dundalk: 5.15: 9: Geocentric  6.45: 1: Absolute Ruler.

30/9/21 Clonmel + Bellewstown

 Wednesday wasn't a bad day for my pick with Special Power coming 2nd,the 5/6 favourite chased the leaders in 3rd early. He challenged just over a furlong out but soon found himself short of room,he kept on well in the final furlong moving into 2nd close to home. The race went to the 4/1 shot Takana who won by 1/2 a length. 

 The first of three busy days sees 7 races at Clonmel and 8 at Bellewstown, the highlight at Clonmel is the 1.40 when 9 begin the Clonmel Mares Handicap Hurdle. Pretty Little Liar arrives in top form a second at Wexford at the beginning of this month was followed by another good runner-up finish at Navan 12 days ago,she was only beaten by a neck there and going up in trip means she should go one better. So Near So Farhh was a convincing 4 length winner at Downpatrick when last seen 2 weeks ago,she stayed on well that day and has a big shout again. The other to look at is Quarry Lil she has picked up 2 wins here this year her last was a hurdle in March by 3 3/4 lengths. She was a bit below form when 8th at Galway 24 days ago however she is likely to be fitter after that and still has a hope. The main event at Bellewstown comes at 3.05 when 17 start the Gannons City Recovery And Recycling Services Ltd Supporting Dafa Handicap,this race is staged in honor of late trainer Barney Curley and sees Frankie Dettori and Jamie Spencer take part. Earls was an encouraging 2nd to Is That Love at Listowel a week ago,he should build on that here and on form looks like the one to beat. Meishar picked up his career best win in a handicap at Dundalk last week,he goes up in trip and with improvement coming all the time he should challenge. Tipperary Moon is the other on the shortlist his last win was at Dundalk in April and despite his last two runs being below form he can boast a course and distance 2nd in July and with Jamie Spencer on board he can't be ruled out.

Big race predictions: Clonmel: 7: Pretty Little Liar  Bellewstown: 4: Earls. 

29/9/21 Bellewstown

 Tuesday didn't go well for my pick with Bopedro finishing 6th,the 6/1 chance was towards the rear early and made no impression from a furlong out. He kept on at one pace inside the final furlong without threatening with the 7/1 shot Queenship winning by 1/2 a length. 

 The midweek meeting sees an 8 race card at Bellewstown where the highlight is the 4.05 when 8 begin the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. Special Power has run well recently with three second place finishes, his last was at Tipperary 54 days ago. He sets the clear standard here and should go one better. Takana is a decent filly who after finishing 2nd at Navan at the end of August was a very creditable 3rd at Dundalk 12 days ago,she led until the final furlong with that performance giving her an excellent chance in this race. Looking at the rest of the field 4 make their debuts and of those El Magnifique looks the best on paper,this half-brother to Green Door should travel well and put up a good showing although the other 3 Carla's Kodi Bear,Moe Sedway and Sacred Territory cannot be ruled out.

Big race prediction: 7: Special Power.

28/9/21 Cork

 The week got off to an ok start with my pick Bold Enough finishing 3rd. The 5/4 favourite was in midfield early but improved to sit 2nd at the 6th,he closed up to challenge the leader 2 out however he dropped to 3rd before the last weakening soon after. Upfront Exit Poll beat Embittered by a neck.

 There are 8 races at Cork on Tuesday where the main event is the 4.05 when 19 begin the listed Navigation Stakes. Bopedro picked up his biggest win in the Irish Cambridgeshire at The Curragh at the end of August, that performance saw him go off as favourite in a handicap at Leopardstown 17 days ago. He was left with a lot to do but still finished a good 3rd and on form he is worth another look here. Erzindjan is a smart colt who has a win here on his record,he was 7th to Real Appeal in the Boomerang Stakes at Leopardstown last time and should definitely be considered as he drops down in class. Queenship looked a good prospect when winning a handicap at Gowran Park back in April,she quickened to win by 5 lengths that day and with this being her first run since then and improvement expected she should go well.

Big race prediction: 1: Bopedro.

27/9/21 Roscommon

 Sunday turned out to be a good day for both my picks at The Curragh. In the 2.30 Sunset Shiraz was 2nd,the 100/30 chance was 3rd early but improved to lead from 2 out. She was put under pressure and passed inside the final furlong by Concert Hall the 9/2 shot won by a length. The 3.35 saw The Mediterranean also finish 2nd,the 1/1 favourite sat 4th 3 out. He struggled to make an impression from a furlong out keeping on without threatening the easy winner Search For A Song who came home by 9 1/2 lengths. 

 A busy week begins with 7 races at Roscommon on Monday where the highlight is the 3.35 when 6 start the Ballymore Group Irish EBF Kilbegnet Novice Chase. Bold Enough made a good start to his chase career winning at Wexford and over this course and distance at the beginning of the summer. He was a good 3rd in a grade 2 at Galway when last seen in July and with more to come he should provide trainer Henry De Bromhead with a third win in this race in the last 4 years. Exit Poll is a useful chaser who was at his best when winning a handicap chase at Kilbeggan 24 days ago and he should definitely be respected as his yard is in very good form. Druid's Altar has picked up 3 wins from 7 runs this season,his last was a very easy 15 length success at Wexford 23 days ago. He was behind Bold Enough at Galway in July but still shouldn’t be overlooked as he bids for a hat-trick. 

Big race prediction: 1: Bold Enough. 

26/9/21 The Curragh

 The weekend began with differing fortunes for my picks. At Listowel Walking Fame was 8th,the 14/1 chance was in midfield but made no impression when she found herself short of room 3 out. She had nothing extra from 2 out with the race being won by Run For Oscar the 5/1 favourite came home by 3 lengths.  At The Curragh Luxembourg won,the 8/13 favourite was at the rear early but made progress quickening to lead inside the final furlong. He was soon clear staying on strongly to impressively win by 4 3/4 lengths. 

 There are just 8 races at The Curragh on Sunday with 2 feature contests,the first is at 2.30 when 11 line-up for the Group 3 Weld Park Stakes. Sunset Shiraz sets the standard after finishing a very good 3rd to Discoveries in the Moyglare Stud Stakes over this course and distance 2 weeks ago,she should take advantage of the drop back in class and is the one to beat. Albula was second in the Flame Of Tara Stakes on this course when last seen 30 days ago,she put in a good effort that day and with more progress expected she should go well again. The other to look at is Tranquil Lady who's one win from two runs this year was a maiden at Galway 19 days ago,she was clear by 3 1/4 lengths there and she is definitely open to improvement and completes the shortlist. The other big race is the 3.35 when 9 begin the Raa Atoll Loughbrown Stakes. The Mediterranean is a smart colt who's last win was at Leopardstown in May,he went on to be a good 3rd in the St Leger at Doncaster 15 days ago and going back down in grade means he should land this tight contest. Barrington Court was a creditable 4th to Twilight Payment in the Irish St Leger trial on this course 44 days ago,she ran well that day and can't be discounted. Search For A Song has been a winner on this course but she was a bit below form when 6th in the Irish St Leger here 2 weeks ago,however she has a good chance and is an obvious player if recapturing last year’s form. 

Big race predictions: 2.30: 9: Sunset Shiraz  3.35: 9: The Mediterranean. 

25/9/21 Listowel + The Curragh

 Friday saw another mixed bag of results for my picks,at Listowel Bua Boy was 2nd. The 6/1 chance was in midfield early but made headway 3 out. He was 2nd entering the straight and was on terms before the last. He made no impression sitting 2nd on the run-in allowing the 12/1 shot Dysart Diamond to win by 1 1/4 lengths. At Dundalk Dubai Warrior was 10th,the 9/2 shot led after 1 1/2 furlongs and he was 2 lengths clear 4 out. His advantage was reduced when coming under pressure entering the straight and he was soon passed weakening 1 1/2 furlongs out. At the head of the field Bear Story beat Lough Derg by a neck.

 The weekend kicks off with 8 races at both Listowel and The Curragh, the highlight of the final day of the Listowel Harvest festival is the 2.15 when 19 begin the M.J. Carroll Arro Handicap Hurdle. Walking Fame didn't live up to expectations on her first run for Willie Mullins when 6th at Tramore 44 days ago however she goes up in trip here and is worth another chance. Ashqar was a very creditable 5th at Navan a week ago,he goes back up in trip and should not be taken lightly. The other who should go well is Act Of God he picked up his career best win in a handicap hurdle at Bellewstown 31 days ago,he dug in deep that day to win by 1 1/2 lengths and on form can continue to improve with another good performance. Of the rest Batcio stands out he achieved his best when winning a handicap chase at Killarney 35 days ago,he makes his handicap hurdle debut here so shouldn't be ruled out. At The Curragh the big race comes at 2.30 when just 6 line-up for the Group 2 Alan Smurfit Memorial Beresford Stakes. Aiden O’Brien has won the last 10 runnings of this contest and his horse Luxembourg should make it 11,he got off the mark in impressive fashion on debut at Killarney in July,he will definitely improve and looks like one to follow for the future. Swan Bay was second on debut on this course in early August and built on that when winning a maiden at Galway 18 days ago,there is further improvement to come and he is a major player here. The other on the shortlist is Manu Et Corde who ran well when he stepped back up to a mile coming home fifth in the Champions Juvenile Stakes at Leopardstown 2 weeks ago and he can definitely feature again.

Big race predictions: Listowel: 11: Walking Fame  The Curragh: 2: Luxembourg. 

24/9/21 Listowel + Dundalk

 Thursday saw another poor result with my pick Monty's Way finishing 11th,the 4/1 favourite was slowly into his stride and was 11th at halfway. He made some headway approaching the straight and he disputed 9th briefly but soon made no impression with the 11/1 chance Rebellito winning by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There are two meetings on Friday with 8 races at both Listowel and Dundalk, the main event on day 5 at Listowel comes at 2.10 when 20 line-up for the Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle. Bua Boy was a very good second when last seen at Galway 56 days ago and that performance means he should give another good account of himself here. Wouldn't You Agree has 2 wins from 5 runs this season his last was his career best at Killarney at the end of last month,he had several of this field behind him that day and he should go well again. The other on the shortlist is Belfast Banter who won the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival before going on to win the Grade one Top Novices Hurdle at Aintree in April. His run in the Galway hurdle last time can be excused as his saddle slipped after a bad mistake 3 out and he still has a very good chance. Over at Dundalk the feature contest is the 6.45 when 10 begin the Group 3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Diamond Stakes. Dubai Warrior finished 5th to Walton Street in a Group 2 at Meydan back in March,that race was on Turf but he returns to the All-weather here which is a plus and he has an excellent chance if bouncing back. Ides Of August picked up his career best win in a handicap over this course and distance 40 days ago,his yard is going well making him the main challenger. River Eden is a promising horse who easily won a maiden over this course on debut 74 days ago,she goes significantly up in trip here but is open to progress so she can't be ignored. The other to look at is Khartoum a smart colt who was a good 8th to Real Appeal in the Boomerang Stakes at Leopardstown 2 weeks ago,he is suited by a strong pace so definitely can't be discounted. 

Big race predictions: Listowel: 16: Bua Boy  Dundalk: 1: Dubai Warrior.

23/9/21 Listowel

 The big race of the week at Listowel saw my pick Farclas fail to finish. The 6/1 chance was 3rd after the 10th and was still just behind the leaders when he made a bad mistake and unseated his rider 3 out. The race went to Assemble who beat Brahma Bull by 2 3/4 lengths.

 Another day at Listowel on Thursday sees 8 races where the feature comes at 4.35 when 18 begin the Listowel Printing Works (Premier Handicap.) Monty's Way has picked up one win from three runs this year that came in a maiden at Roscommon 24 days ago,he was 1 3/4 lengths in front there and more progress is expected on this his handicap debut so he gets the nod. Phoenix Cowboy has won twice this year at Ballinrobe and Gowran Park but he didn't get a clear run when 17th in a handicap at Leopardstown 12 days ago,despite that his stable is in good form and he should be well up there here. Port Sunlight was a bit below recent form when 4th in a listed race at Leopardstown at the beginning of last month, however she still has a good chance and is a decent each-way bet. The other who should be in the mix is Pachmena who was a very good second at The Curragh when last seen 33 days ago and she can definitely make her presence felt here.

Big race prediction: 15: Monty's Way.

22/9/21 Listowel

 In Tuesday's big race Roca Roma was 4th,the 5/2 favourite was 10th at halfway. She made no impression from a furlong out but kept on well to go 4th close to home. The 7/2 shot Visualisation won beating Geometrical by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 The highlight of the Listowel Harvest festival is on Wednesday when at 4.25 21 line-up for the Guinness Kerry National. Farclas is a classy horse who held his own in some top handicap chases last season. He was going well for a long way when a creditable 5th in the Grand National at Aintree with his stamina letting him down but he should go well here over a shorter distance. There are 3 others who should be in the mix. Conflated is a smart chaser who's last win was a Grade 3 at Naas back in March. His flat return at Gowran Park 3 weeks ago where he finished 4th was needed and he should put on a better showing here. Aramax was a creditable 3rd to Born By The Sea when last seen at Galway 54 days ago and that performance means he can't be ruled out while Darasso is a course winner who has 2 victory's from 4 runs this season. He was a very good 5th in the Galway Plate in July and should give another good account of himself here.

Big race prediction: 4: Farclas. 

21/9/21 Listowel

 I think we can gloss over Monday with both my picks getting poor results. At Listowel Flying Scotsman was 10th,the 7/1 chance made slight mistakes at the 2nd and the 3rd and made no impression towards the rear from 3 out. He kept on at one pace in the straight and was never a factor while upfront Autumn Evening won by 4 lengths. It was slightly better at Fairyhouse with Ultramarine coming 5th,the 3/1 shot was 5th at halfway. He moved up to 4th a furlong out but with no further pace coming he dropped back to 5th on the line. The 2/1 favourite Straight Answer easily won by 5 1/2 lengths.

 Day 3 at Listowel takes centre stage on Tuesday with 8 races and the feature is the 4.37 when 11 begin the Edmund & Josie Whelan Memorial Listowel Stakes. Roca Roma is a useful filly who was a very respectable 2nd in a Group 3 at Tipperary 26 days ago,she faired best of those held up and should be well up there here. Saltonstall arrives having not won in his last 11 runs but he was a good 10th in a handicap at The Curragh just 9 days ago and that effort along with his stable having a good spell means he can't be ruled out. The other to keep an eye on in this open contest is Finans Bay a smart horse who was a very creditable 4th in the same Curragh handicap last week,he stayed on well in the final furlong that day and should be competitive again in this one.

Big race prediction: 7: Roca Roma. 

20/9/21 Listowel + Fairyhouse

 Sunday saw my pick Ballyoisin finish 2nd,the 1/1 favourite led from the start and was 2 lengths clear at halfway. He was passed 2 out and a slight mistake at the last ended his chances. The 6/4 chance Easy Game won by 3 1/2 lengths. 

 We begin the week with 8 races at both Listowel and Fairyhouse, the main event on day 2 of the Harvest Festival at Listowel is the 3.50 when 21 line-up for the Liam Healy Memorial Lartigue Hurdle. Flying Scotsman has 2 wins from 3 runs over hurdles this year,his last race was over the flat at Roscommon at the end of August but that can largely be forgotten and he is a big player here. Persia last picked up a win at Bellewstown in July and he was a good 4th in a listed hurdle when last seen at Galway 54 days ago. He makes his handicap hurdle debut here and should be in contention. Despite being top weight Dark Voyager should go well he has been in useful form recently and with this being his first handicap hurdle he should be respected. The other one who should go well is Malina Girl,she made a winning start over hurdles at Bellewstown 26 days ago easily coming home by 14 lengths. Despite her lack of experience there is more to come so she can't be overlooked. At Fairyhouse the feature comes at 4.37 when 7 begin the listed Ballyhane Blenheim Stakes. Ultramarine is a useful colt who was a good 4th to Native Trail in the National Stakes at The Curragh 8 days ago,he didn't get a clear run there but is the one to beat here. Straight Answer is a promising horse who won a maiden on debut at The Curragh 30 days ago,he is a good prospect who should make his mark at a higher level. The other on the shortlist is Mise Le Meas who last won  at Gowran Park in July and was 5th to Agartha in the Debutante Stakes at The Curragh last time. She is open to further progress dropping to 6 furlongs here and could spring a surprise. 

Big race predictions: Listowel: 3: Flying Scotsman  Fairyhouse: 4: Ultramarine. 

19/9/21 Listowel

 Saturday wasn't a great start to the weekend for my picks,at Navan Apple Crumble was 6th. The 4/1 chance chased the leaders but sat 6th 3 out. She tried to make some headway before the last but kept on at the same pace on the run-in allowing the 16/5 favourite Rock On Seamie to win by 1/2 a length. In the big contest at Gowran Park Zawara was a non runner, the race was won by the 11/2 shot Astadash.

 The Listowel Harvest festival begins on Sunday with 8 races and the highlight of day one comes at 4.30 when just 3 line-up for the Kerry Group Chase. All in the field are high-class chasers but Ballyoisin just gets the nod,he looked like he hadn't lost any of his form when crusing home by 4 1/4 lengths at Ballinrobe at the end of August. That was his first run in 600 days and he will definitely go well again here. Easy Game picked up his latest win at Fairyhouse in April and was a very good second in a handicap chase at Galway when last seen 53 days ago making him just the main challenger. The other in the field is The Storyteller. He last picked up a win in a chase at Down Royal in October last year,and after finishing 5th in the Stayers Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival his last run was a 7th in a Grade one hurdle at Punchestown in April. He needs to recapture some of his 2020 form when he picked up 4 wins but don't rule him out.

Big race prediction: 3: Ballyoisin. 

18/9/21 Navan + Gowran Park

 The week ended on a good note for both my picks,at Downpatrick Seanbhothar was 3rd. The 13/2 shot was 5th at halfway and made a slight mistake 3 out. He made no further impression keeping on at one pace on the run-in going into 3rd close to home,the 100/30 chance Hurricane Georgie won by 5 1/2 lengths, over at Dundalk Redbud was 5th. The 7/4 joint favourite was at the rear early but made progress from 2 out. She was soon 5th but made no impression from a furlong out while the other joint favourite Exquisite Acclaim won by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 A busy Saturday sees 8 races at both Navan and Gowran Park,the feature contest at Navan is the 1.45 when 16 start the Bar One Racing 'Guaranteed Odds On Multiples' Ladies Handicap Hurdle. Apple Crumble opened her hurdles account at the second attempt when easily coming home by 7 1/2 lengths at Kilbeggan 29 days ago,she should progress further as she heads into handicaps and gets the nod. Rock On Seamie last won at Ballinrobe back in June and was a very creditable 3rd at Cork when last seen at the beginning of August and he is definitely shortlisted. The other one who should do well is Thousand Tears he last tasted victory at Killarney in July,he showed some good qualities when fifth at Bellewstown 24 days ago and going significantly down in trip here makes him a player. The main event at Gowran Park comes at 4.30 when 16 line-up for the Group 3 Denny Cordell Lavarack & Lawandes Stud Fillies Stakes. Zawara is a course winner who after a 7th at The Curragh in June improved again when she was 4th in the Paddy Power Stakes at Leopardstown a week ago,she goes back down in trip here and has an excellent chance. April Showers is a useful filly who was a very good second to Insinuendo in the Kilboy Estate Stakes at The Curragh when last seen 62 days ago and she definitely is a challenger here. Solene Lilyette is another useful filly who after being a course and distance winner in early August went on to be a creditable 5th in the Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes at The Curragh 22 days ago,she was well positioned in the closing stages that day and should remain competitive.

Big race predictions: Navan: 5: Apple Crumble  Gowran Park: 6: Zawara. 

17/9/21 Downpatrick + Dundalk

 Thursday at Naas saw my pick Gaire Os Ard finish 4th. The 11/1 shot was 6th at halfway, she made progress coming under pressure in 3rd from a furlong out. She kept on at the same pace offering no extra while upfront the 2/1 favourite Eurocrat beat Corporal Violette by a neck.

 We round off the week with 7 races at Downpatrick and 8 at Dundalk,the feature contest at Downpatrick is the 3.45 when 13 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase. Seanbhothar is a fair chaser who was 3rd in a maiden on this course 18 days ago, he should build on that promise and on form has a good chance. The Abbey was 11th at Navan when last seen 2 weeks ago,he makes the switch from the flat to chasing here and should be competitive. Hurricane Georgie had a good August a third at Cork was followed up by two seconds at Sligo and on this course at the end of the month so she should definitely be respected here. Withallduerespect picked up her career best win in a handicap hurdle at Tramore 33 days ago,she kept on well that day and with this being her chase debut she should go well again. The other one to keep an eye on is Berliet Express who's last win was in a hurdle at Kilbeggan in August and he was a good fifth at Wexford 13 days ago. He is another one making a chase debut so can't be overlooked. At Dundalk the main event comes at 5.10 when 10 begin the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. Redbud is a promising horse who was 2nd over this course and distance 15 days ago,she is open to further improvement and looks like the one to beat. Pepper Streak put in her best performance to finish 2nd at Naas and the end of last month and was also a good 4th at Navan 20 days ago so she should be up there again here. The other to be put on your shortlists is Exquisite Acclaim who improved to finish 4th at Navan last time and he can definitely challenge. 

Big race predictions: Downpatrick: 7: Seanbhothar  Dundalk: 6: Redbud.

16/9/21 Naas

 Wednesday saw my first winner of the week thanks to Grange Walk. The 4/1 joint favourite was towards the rear early but made progress from 2 out. He led entering the straight and was 3 lengths clear after the last,he kept on well and despite having his advantage reduced he came home by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 All eyes turn to Naas on Thursday where the highlight of a 7 race card comes at 4.20 when 16 start the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. Gaire Os Ard has finished second on this course twice this year and arrives after finishing 3rd at Down Royal earlier this month, with more to come she should go one better here. Gabbys Girl needs to bounce back after finishing 7th at Navan 12 days ago,if she can find the form that saw her finish 2nd at Leopardstown last month she can definitely challenge. Eurocrat followed up a 3rd at Leopardstown on debut with a 5th at Galway when last seen at the beginning of August, both runs were over this races distance and he should run well here. The other on the shortlist makes her debut Corporal Violette who is a half-sister to Ghaziyah and out of the newcomers she has the best chance.

Big race prediction: 14: Gaire Os Ard.

15/9/21 Sligo

 Tuesday was a day to forget with my pick Flagged coming 10th. The 100/30 joint favourite chased the leaders and was 3rd 2 out. However she weakened soon after while the 8/1 shot My Holy Fox beat Star Image by 2 lengths. 

 The midweek meeting sees 7 races at Sligo where the feature contest is the 2.40 when 11 begin the Frank O'Beirne Memorial Handicap Chase. Grange Walk picked up his latest win in a Chase at Limerick in July,he came home by 3 1/4 lengths opening his fences account in style and should have gone on to better things. However he went to Galway 49 days ago and fell 3 out,despite that he remains of interest and gets the vote. Turbo has one win from two runs this season that came at Tramore back in August and he was a very good second in a handicap hurdle at Kilbeggan when last seen 26 days ago. He switches from hurdles to chasing here and enters calculations. The other who could challenge is Benefit Run a course winner who was a good second at Galway at the end of July and that performance makes him a player here.

Big race prediction: 5: Grange Walk.

14/9/21 Punchestown

 The Irish racing week begins with 8 races at Punchestown on Tuesday where the highlight comes at 4.05 when 17 line-up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. Flagged picked up her first win at Limerick in April and was a good second at Leopardstown 33 days ago. Her stable is in good form and she should go well again here. My Holy Fox improved to win at the third attempt at The Curragh at the beginning of August,she goes up in trip to make her handicap debut and with further improvement likely she is the main challenger. The other shortlisted is Shahaada who picked up her career best win in a maiden at Clonmel 12 days ago,she stayed on well there and could well have more to offer here as she goes slightly down in trip. Of the others Aurora Princess looks good,she put in her best performance to date to win a handicap at Clonmel last time,she dug deep that day to come home by a neck and she should be competitive. 

Big race prediction: 7: Flagged.

12/9/21 Results

 Sunday's big races at The Curragh saw a mixed bag of results. In the 2.55 Winter Power was 10th,the 16/5 chance led after 2 furlongs but came under pressure 1 1/2 furlongs out. She was passed soon after and had no extra with the 16/1 shot Romantic Proposal winning by 1/2 a length. In the Moyglare Stud Stakes Agartha was 2nd,she went off at 100/30 and led early. She was caught 1 1/2 furlongs out and passed in the final 100 yards by the 17/2 winner Discoveries. At 4.05 Point Lonsdale lost his 100% record finishing 2nd,the 8/13 favourite disputed the lead from 2 1/2 furlongs out. He was under pressure in 2nd inside the final furlong keeping on at the same pace allowing Native Trail to win by 3 1/2 lengths. In the final Group one of the weekend Twilight Payment was also 2nd,the 9/2 shot sat 2nd at halfway and led from 2 out. He was narrowly passed a furlong out and despite pressing inside the final furlong he couldn't pass the winner Sonnyboyliston who came home by 3/4 of a length.

 After an exciting weekend including the six Group one’s there is no Irish racing on Monday however Thirsk,Worcester, Brighton and Kempton all have cards for your enjoyment. The next Irish meeting sees 8 races at Punchestown on Tuesday my preview of that will be up on Monday night.

12/9/21 The Curragh

 Saturday was a good day for my picks at Leopardstown. Mother Earth was 3rd,the 6/5 favourite was 4th when she found herself short of room 2 out. She disputed the lead in 2nd under a furlong from the finish but dropped to 3rd inside the closing stages. Upfront No Speak Alexander won by a neck. In the other big race Tarnawa was 2nd,the 9/4 chance was 3rd a furlong out. She challenged moving into 2nd inside the final furlong keeping on well close to home with the 5/6 favourite St Mark's Basilica winning by 3/4 of a length. 

 Irish Champions Weekend moves to The Curragh on Sunday with 4 more Group one’s, the first comes at 2.55 when 13 begin the Flying Five Stakes. British raiders have won 8 of the last 13 runnings of this race and they look as though they hold the cards here. Glass Slippers returns to defend her crown and she should be sharper after her comeback when she was third in the King George at Goodwood but the pick here is Winter Power who was brilliant when winning the Nunthorpe at York last month and she should become the third filly to win this race. At 3.30 8 start the Moyglare Stud Stakes. This is always a race to look at closely with the likes of Sky Lantern and Love winning in recent years on there way to classic wins. This year should be an O’Brien family battle,Aiden looks for his 10th win and of his runners Prettiest looks like his best hope but she needs to bounce back after failing to push on after going well behind Sandrine at Royal Ascot. This looks like a Joseph win with his horse Agartha who made all the running when winning the Debutante Stakes over this course and distance last time and she should be the 7th successive Debutante winner to go on and win at a higher level. 4.05 sees 7 line-up for the Vincent O’Brien National Stakes. Here it's difficult to look past Point Lonsdale  who made it 4 wins from 4 runs when he brushed aside Maritime Wings to win the Futurity Stakes by 4 1/4 lengths last time out and he shouldn’t be upstaged giving Aiden O’Brien his first win in this race since 2016. The final Group one of the weekend is at 4.40 when 14 go to post for the Irish St Leger. This race has been top of Search For A Song's list since she won it for a second time 12 months ago,she will be difficult to beat here if at her best. The standout horse in the field is Twilight Payment who was 3rd in this race last year but went on to win the Melbourne Cup and looked on good form when picking up a 6th course win here last time and he should make it a magnificent seven. Others in the field to look at are Baron Semedi and the Ebor winner Sonnyboyliston but they will need to pull out there best to spring a surprise. This is a day to sit back in front of your TV and watch the racing with hopefully some close finishes. 

Big race predictions: 2.55: 13: Winter Power  3.30: 1: Agartha 

                                       4.05: 6: Point Lonsdale  4.40: 8: Twilight Payment. 

11/9/21 Leopardstown

 Friday saw my pick Abbey Magic finish 2nd. The 11/4 favourite tracked the leaders and was on terms before the 3rd,she disputed the lead again 2 out but a mistake at the last left her 2nd. She had no extra in the final furlong keeping on at one pace allowing the 7/1 chance Whatucallher to win by 8 lengths. 

 After a relatively quiet week what a couple of days we have ahead as Irish Champions Weekend takes place with a total of six Group One’s. The first two are part of an 8 race card at Leopardstown on Saturday,1.40 sees 13 begin the Coolmore America Justify Matron Stakes. There are five Group one winners in the field including last year’s victor Champers Elysees but she will have to up her game to be the first two-time winner. This race should go to trainer Aiden O’Brien he runs Empress Josephine, Shale and Pretty Gorgeous but the pick of his is Mother Earth. She won the English 1000 Guineas and then ran well to be placed in the French 1000 and the Coronation Stakes before getting back to winning ways in the Prix Rothschild last time. She should be the 7th successive three-year-old to land this race. The best race of the weekend is the 2.45 when 4 start the Irish Champion Stakes. This is a battle between three brilliant horses. St Mark's Basilica has run well in France this year pulling off the 2000 Guineas/Derby double and emphatically beating both Addeybb and Mishriff in the Coral Eclipse last time out,he was the Champion two-year-old last year so can definitely win this. Poetic Flare arrives here after winning the 2000 Guineas and the St James’s Palace Stakes this season and being placed in three other Group one’s. He is 2 from 2 on this course but will need to settle early if he is going to win. The pick here is Tarnawa who last season beat Magical in the Breeders Cup and had 2 wins at Longchamp and a win at Cork on her record. She looked in excellent form when winning by 6 1/2 lengths on her return here in August and in five starts over this race distance she has only lost once so gets the nod.

Big race predictions: 1.40: 10: Mother Earth  2.45: 2: Tarnawa. 

10/9/21 Ballinrobe

 After our Thursday break we return to action with 8 races at Ballinrobe on Friday where the highlight comes at 5.30 when 12 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle. Abbey Magic was a 1 1/4 length winner in a chase at Galway at the end of July before being a very creditable 4th at Killarney 20 days ago,she returns to hurdling here and should go well. Fame And Joy picked up her career best win in a novice hurdle at Kilbeggan at the beginning of last month, she cruised home by an easy 23 lengths that day and with this being her handicap hurdle debut she definitely needs to be considered. The shortlist is completed by Metersandmasks who ran on well to take a maiden hurdle on this course when last seen at the end of last month,she is another making her handicap hurdle debut and should be well in the mix.

Big race prediction: 4: Abbey Magic. 

8/9/21 Result

  Business finally picked up on Wednesday with my pick Dickochea coming 2nd. The 11/2 chance was towards the rear early on but travelled well to sit 3rd just over a furlong out. He challenged in the final 100 yards but made no impression on the winner Viareggio who came home by a head.

 After the midweek action Irish racing takes a break on Thursday however there are meetings at Chepstow,Doncaster and Epsom with an evening card at Chelmsford to give you your racing fix. The next Irish card is 8 races at Ballinrobe on Friday my preview of that will be up on Thursday night. 

8/9/21 Cork

 The poor start to the week continued with Great White Shark being a non runner. The race was won by the 5/2 favourite Haparanda who beat Woodland Garden by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 Wednesday's meeting takes place at Cork where the feature of an 8 race card comes at 6.35 when 7 start the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Premier Nursery Handicap. Dickochea continued to show promise when 6th in a maiden at The Curragh 12 days ago,the one mile trip seemed to be a little too much at the end so the drop to 7 furlongs here should suit on his nursery debut and he gets the vote. Que Linda has improved in her three races finishing 5th at Naas last time,she should do better here in her first Handicap and could challenge. The other danger is Nectarine who was a very good 3rd at The Curragh when last seen at the end of August, a repeat performance here should see her in the mix. The other worth a look is Hapipi Go Lucky who after winning a maiden at Fairyhouse in July moved on to stronger company but looked out of her depth when last in the Group 2 Debutante Stakes at The Curragh last time out,however this is a more suitable race and she can’t be ruled out. 

Big race prediction: 7: Dickochea. 

7/9/21 Galway

 The week didn't start well with my pick Jazzaway failing to finish. The 8/15 favourite was 3rd at halfway,but a slight mistake at the 7th saw her drop to 4th. She made no further impression and was pulled up early on in the run-in. Upfront Macgiloney won by 3 1/4 of a length. 

 Tuesday is the second day at Galway where the feature comes at 6.30 when 10 begin the Ardilaun Hotel Oyster Stakes. Great White Shark is a useful filly who after winning on this course in July last year went on to Newmarket to win the Cesarewitch by 3 lengths. Her two runs this year have been a 7th at Gowran Park and an 8th to Black Tears in the Mares Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival when last seen 175 days ago despite that she looks competitive and her class should shine through. Haparanda was a very creditable 3rd in a listed race at Roscommon at the end of June,she needs a stronger gallop but is still a leading player. The other main threat will be Merroir who has 3 wins from 10 runs this year her last was on this course in July. Her latest run saw her finish a good third in a handicap at The Curragh 17 days ago and she should go well again.

Big race prediction: 4: Great White Shark.

6/9/21 Galway

 A busy week which culminates in Irish Champions Weekend begins on Monday with 8 races at Galway where the feature is the 5.05 when 7 start the Deacy Gilligan Hurdle. Here it's hard to look past Jazzaway who after winning at Punchestown in April picked up her career best victory in a handicap hurdle on this course 38 days ago. With more to come she should definitely get her hat-trick win. Thosedaysaregone is a useful hurdler who's only win this year came at Dundalk in March,he must enter calculations after a good 4th in a hurdle at Down Royal 10 days ago making him the main challenger. The other on the shortlist is Magiloney who picked up a victory here in July,despite being pulled up over fences since he should do better in this race back over smaller obstacles. Quirt Evans has 2 wins from 5 runs this season and arrives here after a very good 3rd in a novice hurdle at Killarney 17 days ago and he should go close again. Of the rest the only one with a chance is Holymacapony he was last seen finishing 8th behind Gaillard Du Mesnil at Leopardstown 7 months ago but shouldn't be overlooked on his return. 

Big race prediction: 7: Jazzaway. 

4/9/21 Results

 Saturday saw my picks finish at either end of the field. At Navan Heart To Heart was 8th,the 5/2 favourite was prominent sitting 3rd at halfway. She weakened from 2 out dropping down the field with the 17/2 chance Speedacus winning by a neck. Over at Wexford Druid's Altar won,the 10/11 favourite was 2nd early travelling smoothly from 3 out. He led approaching the straight and quickly pulled away staying on well and easily winning by 15 lengths. 

 After a busy Saturday there is no Irish racing on Sunday but 3 English meetings do take place at Fontwell,Perth and York. There is also Group one action in France where at 2.48 Longchamp hosts the Prix Du Moulin where British raiders Baaeed,Snow Lantern and Order Of Australia are among the favourites. The next Irish card is at Galway on Monday my preview of that will be up on Sunday night.

4/9/21 Navan + Wexford

 Friday was an interesting day for my picks. At Down Royal Snaffles won,the 8/15 favourite was prominent and sat 2nd at halfway. He travelled well and led from 1 1/2 furlongs out,he asserted his authority and drew clear inside the final furlong easily coming home by 5 lengths. It was a different story at Kilbeggan with Kitty Galore coming 9th. The 3/1 favourite led early and was clear,her advantage was reduced after a mistake 3 out and she was passed at the next weakening after allowing the 7/1 chance Trixie Mc to win by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 Two more meetings on Saturday see 7 races at both Navan and Wexford,the feature at Navan is the 3.00 when 8 begin the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Premier Nursery Handicap. Heart To Heart was a good second over 6 furlongs on this course a week ago only being caught in the final 100 yards after leading,she drops to 5 furlongs in this race and should go one better. Jarvis finished 9th at The Curragh when last seen 22 days ago,he travelled well for a long way so on that evidence the drop back in trip here should suit making him the main challenger. The other threat should be Threebagsfull who last won at Bellewstown in July and was 7th to Head Mistress in a listed race at The Curragh in mid August so he should be competitive back in nursery company. Over at Wexford the main event is the 3.20 when 6 start the Mokka E At Ferrybank Motors Rated Novice Chase. Druid's Altar beat a couple in this field at Killarney 2 weeks ago with a bit in hand making him the one to beat here. The main danger is Jungle Junction who's latest win was at Fairyhouse in April before going on to be a 4 1/4 length second to Druid's Altar at Killarney, his jumping was better their so he should be a player. The other one with a chance is Effernock Fizz a useful hurdler who's last win was over the flat at The Curragh in June,however she has potential over fences and could show that here. The other to look at is Optical Confusion who's latest win was in a chase at Ballinrobe in May,he was a bit below form when 5th in a handicap chase at Tipperary 48 days ago so he has a bit to find here but he could still challenge. 

Big race predictions: Navan: 4: Heart To Heart  Wexford: 5: Druid's Altar.

3/9/21 Down Royal + Kilbeggan

 Thursday was a decent day for my picks with both of them finishing 3rd. At Dundalk New York City was at the rear early sitting 7th 4 out,the 7/4 chance made headway from 2 out moving up to 3rd. He made no impression on the leaders leaving the 1/1 favourite Anatoli to win by a neck. At Clonmel Groveman chased the leaders and was 3rd at halfway. The 4/1 shot led narrowly 1 1/2 furlongs out,he was pressed inside the final furlong and was passed 100 yards from the finish just about holding on to 3rd. The 5/1 chance Takarengo won by a head. 

 A busy Friday sees 8 races at both Down Royal and Kilbeggan,the feature contest at Down Royal comes at 4.50 when 7 begin the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. Snaffles is a promising horse who was a good fifth on debut at Leopardstown 22 days ago,he went off the 9/4 favourite there and if the expected improvement comes this race should go his way. The main danger is Gaire Os Ard who was a bit below form when 2nd at Naas towards the end of last month,she was unsuited by the drop in trip that day and the return to 7 furlongs should suit. In the rest of the field two make their first starts and of those Sir Allen looks marginally the best,this half-brother to Carniolan is in a tricky race to start his career but still can't be overlooked. At Kilbeggan the big race is the 5.07 when 12 line-up for the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. Kitty Galore was a very good second at Down Royal a week ago and that solid effort means she should pick up a second career win here. Feel Des Mottes achieved his first win of the season at Clonmel in May and was a creditable 4th in the same Down Royal race last week so he definitely enters calculations. Reverse Polarity picked up her career best win in a novice hurdle at Tramore 21 days ago,she has been progressing well recently and with this being her handicap hurdle debut she should go well. The other to look at is Bridge Native who was beaten by Kitty Galore at Limerick in October last year but was a good 4th at Galway when last seen 37 days ago,she makes the switch from chasing to hurdles here and could make her presence felt.

Big race predictions: Down Royal: 2: Snaffles  Kilbeggan: 10: Kitty Galore. 

2/9/21 Dundalk + Clonmel

 A good beginning to a new month saw my pick Purple Dawn finish 2nd. The 7/2 chance chased the leaders and sat 2nd 2 out. He made no impression from a furlong out but kept on well leaving the 5/2 favourite Cornman to win by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Thursday is the first of three double headers with 8 races at Dundalk and 7 at Clonmel. The main event at Dundalk is the 4.30 when 7 line-up for the Bar One Racing Maiden. The one's with experience in this field haven't really achieved much so this is a very good opportunity for two who make their debuts to make decent starts,New York City is a brother to winner Invincible Army and with an entry in the Group one Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket at the end of this month he should make a winning start here. The one who should follow him home is Bantry a half-brother to both Divinity and Noble Masterpiece he comes from a yard having a good spell and he should go well. Of the rest the only one you can make a slight case for is Redbud who was 10th on debut at Gowran Park 40 days ago and should do better. The big race at Clonmel comes at 6.45 when 6 start the Tipperary Perpetual Cup Handicap. Groveman looked back to his best when winning at Tramore 19 days ago,he was 1 1/2 furlongs in front that day and should be in the mix again. No Thanks picked up his career best win at Bellewstown just 9 days ago,despite having his advantage reduced close to home he held on well to win by 3/4 of a length and he will challenge. The other one to look at is Takarengo who was a bit below form when finishing 12th in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown when last seen back in April. However he is fairly useful on the flat and was a very good third in the 2020 Cesarewitch at Newmarket which is why he makes the shortlist. 

Big race predictions: Dundalk: 5: New York City  Clonmel: 1: Groveman.