1/6/22 The Curragh

 Tuesday was an excellent day for both my picks, at Tipperary Lady Tilbury won. The 5/2 shot was 3rd at halfway challenging from 1 1/2 furlongs out. She led soon after keeping on well in the final furlong to beat Mehmar by a length. In the 6.35 at Ballinrobe Ilikedwayurthinkin was 2nd. The 100/30 favourite was at the rear making progress 3 out. He sat 3rd at the last grabbing 2nd close to home,Rock Road won by 6 1/2 lengths. 

 We begin a new month with 7 races at The Curragh on Wednesday evening with 2 main events.

6.45: Sky Bet Junefest (Premier Handicap.)

4: Neo Soul: Picked up his career best win at Cork 2 weeks ago. He easily came home by 1 1/2 lengths for his first victory of the year and with better still to come he is the pick here. 

7.15: Sky Bet Race To The Ebor (Premier Handicap.)

7: Powerful Aggie: A useful filly who has struggled in listed contests this season finishing 8th in the Noblesse Stakes at Cork and 10th in the Vintage Tipple at Gowran Park. Despite that she has a good chance on her handicap form and is worth a look back in this company. 

31/5/22 Tipperary + Ballinrobe

 Monday was a mixed day for my picks at Ballinrobe,in the 5.45 Prairie Dancer won. The Evens favourite made all the running going clear 2 out. He stayed on well in the closing stages easily beating Douglas Dc by 16 lengths. In the next Gjoumi was 6th. The 7/2 chance led early but she was passed 2 out soon weakening. Upfront Two Shoe Tom won by 3 1/4 lengths. 

 An early week double header takes place on Tuesday with 7 races at both Tipperary and Ballinrobe where there are two highlights. 

Tipperary 6.15: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race.

5: Lady Tilbury: Showed promise on debut when 2nd at Dundalk and built on that to win at Cork 25 days ago. She quickened to lead from a furlong out eventually coming home by 3 lengths. She looks like the one to beat with further improvement likely. 

Ballinrobe 6.35: Mchale Mayo National Handicap Chase. 

6: Ilikedwayurthinkin: A course and distance winner in his career who was a very good second in a Grade 3 handicap hurdle at Aintree 52 days ago. He switches back to chasing here and should go one better over the larger obstacles. 

30/5/22 Ballinrobe

 It was a good day at Punchestown on Sunday with both my picks winning.  In the 3.40 Direct Image was 6th after the 8th making good headway approaching the straight. The 5/2 favourite led soon after going clear on the run-in to beat Loudest Whisper by 1 1/2 lengths. The 4.50 saw Fire Attack lead and go clear early making all the running. The 13/8 favourite was 5 lengths clear at the 10th with his lead reduced to a length from 4 out. He asserted himself before the last keeping on well to beat Bold Enough by 4 lengths. 

 A Monday card at Ballinrobe begins the week with 7 races where two standout.

5.45: Sheridan Electric Hurdle. 

2: Prairie Dancer: A useful hurdler who's latest win came at Cork last month. He was a creditable second at Clonmel when last seen 18 days ago and with blinkers back on he has strong claims here.

6.20: Monroe's Live John Monroe Memorial Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Gjoumi: Last won at Gowran Park back in March and followed that up with an excellent 2nd in a hurdle at Limerick on her last outing 64 days ago. She comes from the yard of Willie Mullins who is having a good spell so a bold bid is expected here back in handicap company. 

29/5/22 Punchestown

 Saturday wasn't a bad day for my picks,at Punchestown Kildorrery was 4th. The 13/2 shot was in touch at the rear early making headway to sit 4th 3 out. He moved into 3rd at the next but dropped down a place before the last making no impression. At the head of the field Espion Du Chenet won by 2 1/4 lengths. At Navan Yashin won,the 4/1 chance made headway early in the straight to sit 2nd two out. He led soon after keeping on well inside the final furlong beating Vina Sena by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 Punchestown hosts a 7 race card on Sunday with two features. 

3.40: Watch Racing Free Online With Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle. 

6: Direct Image: Picked up three wins from five runs last season but her career best came at Tipperary 24 days ago. She easily won by 4 1/2 lengths and despite a weight rise she can continue her good form here.

4.50: Ladbrokes Committed To Safer Gambling Handicap Chase.

3: Fire Attack: Was a very good second behind Ciel De Neige in a novice chase on this course when last seen back in February. He goes significantly up in trip here to make his handicap chase debut and should go one better if back on form. 

28/5/22 Punchestown + Navan

 There were results at both ends of the scale for my picks on Friday. At Limerick Gin On Lime was 2nd,the 8/13 favourite led early and was 5 lengths clear at halfway. She had a reduced lead 3 out and faced a strong challenge when bumped soon after. She was passed on the run-in having no extra towards the finish allowing Say Goodbye to win by 1/2 a length. In the 6.50 at Fairyhouse HMS Endeavour was 6th. The 9/2 shot was towards the rear throughout and had no extra from 2 out making no impression. Upfront Prisoner's Dilemma won by 1/2 a length. 

 The weekend begins with 8 races at both Punchestown and Navan with two highlights. 

Punchestown 1.20: Ladbrokes We Play Together Handicap Chase.

7: Kildorrery: A course and distance winner in his career with his latest victory coming in a chase at Cork in April. He finished 7th at Ballinrobe 25 days ago after being left poorly placed but despite that he looks like the way to go here.

Navan 4.00: Royal County Handicap. 

2: Yashin: A promising horse who achieved his career best win in a handicap at Leopardstown 3 weeks ago,he best Chaos Control by a comfortable 3 1/4 lengths and a weight rise here shouldn’t hamper him. He should be well up there again and gets the vote.

27/5/22 Limerick + Fairyhouse

 Thursday was a mixed day for my picks at Limerick, in the 5.25 Walk On The Moone was 2nd. The 2/9 favourite was behind the leaders early making headway to sit 4th at the 5th. She was 3rd 2 out and after making a slight mistake she stayed on in 2nd after the last without reaching the winner Shesadream who came home by 3/4 of a length. The 7.10 saw Itwasfate fail to finish. The 6/5 favourite had run well but was under pressure in 3rd when he fell at the last. Rocco Bay won by 4 lengths. 

 A Friday double header ends the week with 7 races at both Limerick and Fairyhouse with two interesting contests standing out.

Limerick 5.40: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Chase.

1: Gin On Lime: A useful chaser who had five wins from seven runs last season. She was a respectable 3rd to Easy Game in the An Riocht Chase at Killarney 11 days ago and should resume winning ways here. 

Fairyhouse 6.50: Racing TV Race.

5: HMS Endeavour: Was disappointing in the Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket when last seen 8 months ago. He did show plenty of ability before that winning at Navan and Dundalk and with more progress expected he can make a winning reappearance here.

26/5/22 Limerick

 It was another good day for my picks on Wednesday, in the 5.45 Hurricane Georgie won. She was 4th at halfway sitting 3rd 4 out. The 5/4 favourite made headway to lead before 2 out. She kept on well on the run-in beating Toor Moment by 3 1/4 lengths. The 7.15 saw Whatsnotoknow finish 4th. The 11/8 favourite led early but he wasn't fluent from the 11th being passed 3 out after a slight mistake. He soon dropped to the rear and had no extra approaching the straight. He weakened soon after while upfront Chinx Of Light won by 3 3/4 lengths. 

 We move to Limerick on Thursday for a 7 race card where there are 2 highlights. 

5.25: Tote Guarantee On All Win Bets Mares Maiden Hurdle. 

16: Walk On The Moone: Won a bumper at Kilbeggan on debut 35 days ago going clear to come home by an impressive 5 1/2 lengths. She goes up in trip here on her first hurdles start and should take some stopping. 

7.10: Connolly's Red Mills Irish EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle. 

1: Itwasfate: This lightly-raced horse was a respectable 4th in a novice hurdle at Clonmel when last seen 98 days ago. Despite being winless he has the best form in this field and should get off the mark on his fourth hurdles start for the team of Henry De Bromhead and Rachel Blackmore a combination that won this race 12 months ago.

25/5/22 Wexford

 The week continued on a high with both of Tuesday's picks winning,at Punchestown Frontline Worker was prominent sitting 3rd at halfway. She was 2nd 3 out disputing the lead at the next. Despite a slight mistake she led on the run-in keeping on well in the final 100 yards beating Diamondinthemud by 3 1/4 lengths. Over at Gowran Park Flying Dolphin made all the running staying on well under pressure in the final furlong to beat Hazy Mehmory by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 Wexford is the midweek destination for a 7 race card with two features. 

5.45: Boylesports Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

7: Hurricane Georgie: A useful chase winner who's last run can be overlooked when she unseated her rider in a handicap chase at Punchestown 27 days ago. She was favourite that day and with this being her handicap hurdle debut she has leading claims. 

7.15: Support The Irish Injured Jockeys Fund Hurdle.

4: Whatsnotoknow: Despite it being 19 runs since his last win this useful hurdler was a below form 10th when last seen at Aintree 46 days ago. He is the type to bounce back quickly and is the solid option here.

24/5/22 Punchestown + Gowran Park

 The week got off to an excellent start with both my picks winning. In the 5.00 Voce Del Palio recovered after going slightly right out of the stalls to sit 4th at halfway. He went 2nd from a furlong out keeping on strongly in the closing stages to lead on the line beating Wujdaan by a head. The 6.30 saw Rosscarbery travel well to lead from 2 out. She was clear from a furlong out keeping on well inside the final furlong to beat Pachmena by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 An early week double header takes place on Tuesday with 6 races at Punchestown and 8 at Gowran Park with two standing out. 

Punchestown 1.55: Bar One Racing Bet On Mobile Maiden Hurdle. 

18: Frontline Worker: A horse with promise who was 8th in a novice hurdle at Navan when last seen back in mid December. She wasn’t disgraced that day and with more to come should be well up there on her return. 

Gowran Park 5.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

6: Flying Dolphin: Has run well on both his starts, a second on debut at Leopardstown was followed up by a good third at Cork 18 days ago. He wears a tongue strap and cheekpieces for the 1st time here and sets a high standard giving him the nod. 

23/5/22 Roscommon

 It was a decent Sunday at The Curragh for my picks, in the 2.40 State Of Rest was 3rd. The 2/1 joint favourite travelled well to sit 4th 2 out. He was 3rd inside the final furlong staying on to the line just failing to reach the leaders,Alenquer won by a neck. The 3.10 saw Twilight Spinner finish 5th with the 8/11 favourite Pearls Galore winning the race. In the 1000 Guineas Homeless Songs won. The 11/2 shot ran well and led from a furlong out. She stayed on strongly in the closing stages easily beating Tuesday by 5 1/2 lengths. 

 7 races at Roscommon begin a new week with two main events. 

5.00: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

11: Voce Del Palio: A horse that showed promise when 4th at Leopardstown on debut 10 days ago in a race won by the exciting Alfred Munnings. That run means he should be sharper here and with his stable in good form he looks like the one to beat.

6.30: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

1: Rosscarbery: Has two wins from two runs this year including her career best in a handicap at Sligo 22 days ago. She kept on best under pressure there and with her trainer going well she should be up to the task and complete the hat-trick. 

22/5/22 The Curragh

 Saturday was a good day for my picks at The Curragh, in the 2.10 Tough Talk was 2nd. The 1/1 favourite was 2nd at halfway. He made no impression from a furlong out keeping on at one pace allowing Blackbeard to win by 3 1/2 lengths. The 2.45 saw A Case Of You finish 3rd. The 13/8 favourite was in midfield early making headway from 2 out. He dropped to 3rd soon after while upfront Brad The Brief won by 1/2 a length. In the Irish 2000 Guineas Native Trail won. The 2/5 favourite sat 3rd two out making headway to lead a furlong from the finish. He kept on well in the final 100 yards beating New Energy by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 It's another excellent day at The Curragh on Sunday with 3 highlights. 

2.40: Tattersalls Gold Cup (Group 1)

8: State Of Rest: A good horse who is back on home soil after some brilliant overseas runs. Wins in a Grade 1 at Saratoga and the Cox Plate in Australia where followed up by another victory in the Prix Ganay at Longchamp on his reappearance earlier this month. He should be able to extend that winning run here.

3.10: Lanwades Stud Stakes (Group 2)

8: Twilight Spinner: A smart filly who picked up her career best win in the Athasi Stakes on this course 20 days ago. She beat Cigamia by 3 1/4 lengths and should be suited by going up in trip here. It won’t be as comfortable in this one but a bold bid is expected. 

3.45: Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas (Group 1)

6: Homeless Songs: A highly promising horse who won a trial for this race at Leopardstown 50 days ago. She beat Agartha by a length showing an impressive turn of foot close to home. Going up to a mile shouldn’t be an issue and she can make her presence felt. 

21/5/22 The Curragh

 It was a mixed end to the week for my picks. At The Curragh Hannibal Barca won,the 7/4 favourite was 5th early on making headway into 3rd 1 1/2 furlongs out. He led inside the final furlong staying on well to beat Lyrical Poetry by a length. In the 6.00 Haziya was 3rd. The 100/30 favourite was 4th a furlong out. She improved to 3rd after keeping on well close to home while upfront Celtic Crown won by 1 1/4 lengths. At Downpatrick Strong Roots was 5th. The 9/4 favourite led at halfway but was passed on the run to the last weakening soon after. Journey West easily won by 8 lengths. 

 There are 8 races at The Curragh on Saturday and 3 of them standout. 

2.10: Gain Marble Hill Stakes (Group 3)

4: Tough Talk: A promising looking horse who won a maiden over course and distance on debut 41 days ago. He showed stamina to get on top in the final strides and he is well worth his place at this higher level. 

2.45: Wetherbys Ireland Greenlands Stakes (Group 2)

1: A Case Of You: A very smart colt who returns home after picking up his career best win in the Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan 56 days ago. He beat Happy Romance by 1 1/4 lengths and holds the edge on form here. He should make it 3 wins from 4 this year. 

3.20: Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas (Group 1)

7: Native Trail: Won his first 5 starts including a Group 1 here last autumn. He was unlucky to loose his unbeaten run when beaten by stablemate Coroebus in the English 2000 at Newmarket 3 weeks ago. He should be very hard to beat and can go one better here.

20/5/22 The Curragh + Downpatrick

 At Tipperary on Thursday both my picks were 2nd. In the 6.55 Drumbear had a 5 length advantage at halfway. That was reduced from 3 out and he was strongly pressed on the run-in. The 4/1 shot was passed on the line with Fame And Joy winning by a nose. In the next Run For Pat was prominent early and led from 2 out. He was challenged approaching the last being passed on the run-in by Whacker Clan who won by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 A busy few days begins with 8 races at The Curragh and 7 at Downpatrick on Friday with three highlights. 

The Curragh 5.25: Heider Family Stables Gallinule Stakes (Group 3)

4: Hannibal Barca: Had a good 2021 winning a novice stakes at Salisbury before being an excellent 4th behind Luxembourg in the Vertem Futurity at Doncaster when last seen in October. He has since been acquired by Joseph O’Brien and can make a winning return for his new trainer.

The Curragh 6.00: William Hill Emerald Mile Handicap. 

20: Haziya: A promising horse who picked up her career best win at Leopardstown 48 days ago. She easily won by 3 lengths with plenty in hand but is still relatively unexposed over this trip and is well worth a chance here.

Downpatrick 6.10: Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. 

4: Strong Roots: Was a very good 3rd at Clonmel when last seen 8 days ago. She was picked off late having gone for home too soon but she will be a major player here if lessons have been learnt from that run.

19/5/22 Tipperary

 The best performance on Wednesday at Cork came from Midnight Toker who finished 2nd. The 2/1 shot tracked the leaders making headway from 2 out. He made no impression inside the final furlong keeping on at one pace, Open Market won by 3/4 of a length. In the 6.10 Joyous Moment came 11th. Despite being prominent early she dropped to the rear 2 out offering no extra. Upfront Neo Soul won by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 In a 7 race card at Tipperary on Thursday evening two contests standout. 

6.55: Junction Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Drumbear: Didn't need to be at his best when winning a novice hurdle at Sedgefield when last seen back in February. He was unchallenged and came home by a massive 24 lengths that day and despite this being his handicap hurdle debut he should be up to the task.

7.25: Tipperary Maiden Hurdle. 

9: Run For Pat: Despite not yet tasting victory this lightly-raced horse brings some decent form here. He was 4th in a handicap hurdle at Ayr 16 days ago needing a stronger gallop to challenge. He wears blinkers for the first time and sets a good standard so can open his account back in maiden company. 

18/5/22 Cork

 An excellent day saw both my picks win. At Killarney Cigamia was 2nd at halfway challenging 1 1/2 furlongs out. She led narrowly soon after keeping on best in the closing stages to beat Alizarine by 3/4 of a length. In the big race at Sligo Gradulations travelled well to lead 2 1/2 furlongs out. She asserted herself going clear from just over a furlong out.  Despite easing down in the closing stages She easily beat A Shin Undine by 3 3/4 lengths. 

 There are 7 races at Cork on Wednesday and two standout. 

5.40: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

1: Midnight Toker: Has been 3rd on both his starts including at Navan when last seen 25 days ago. Looking at the field here he sets a good standard and will be a major player.

6.10: Follow Us On Social Media Handicap. 

12: Joyous Moment: Got off the mark on her second outing at The Curragh in April and then thanks to a poor draw finished 8th at Naas 11 days ago. She still has plenty of potential and is worth another chance here to improve and show she is better than that last run.

17/5/22 Killarney + Sligo

 In Monday's two races at Killarney Easy Game won, the 3/1 chance was 3rd at halfway moving into 2nd 3 out. He disputed the lead before the last moving to the head of the field on the run-in. He kept on well under pressure in the closing stages beating Melon by 1 1/2 lengths. In the 7.30 Waitnsee finished 6th. The 12/1 shot was 5th 3 out but had no extra soon after. Recite A Prayer won the race by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 Two meetings take place on Tuesday evening with 7 races at both Killarney and Sligo with 2 features. 

Killarney 5.55: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Fillies Race.

2: Cigamia: A lightly-raced horse who was a very creditable 2nd behind Twilight Spinner in the Athasi Stakes at The Curragh when last seen 15 days ago. She should take the drop in class here in her stride and is the clear pick on form.

Sligo 6.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

10: Gradulations: This filly was an excellent 2nd in a maiden at Gowran Park 2 weeks ago. Despite being no match for the winner her yard is in good form and she should go well again here.

16/5/22 Killarney

 Out of my 3 Sunday picks the best performance came from New York City who finished 2nd. The 6/5 favourite edged right leaving the stalls but was soon chasing the leaders in 3rd. He went 2nd just over a furlong out but made no impression in the closing stages keeping on at the same pace allowing Twilight Jet to win by 3 lengths. In the other races Matilta Picotte was 4th while Glan was poor finishing 15th. There were also two listed contests at Naas, Brostaigh won the Sole Power Sprint Stakes by 1 1/2 lengths and Lust won the Owenstown Stud Stakes beating Diadora by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There are 8 races at Killarney on Monday evening with two highlights. 

7.00: Boylesports An Riocht Chase (Grade 3)

1: Easy Game: A high-class chaser who didn't need to improve when winning the Devenish Chase at Fairyhouse a month ago. He beat Cilaos Emery by 7 1/2 lengths and a repeat of that gives him every chance here.

7.30: Tote Killarney National Handicap Chase. 

3: Waitnsee: Despite not winning in her last 11 starts she was a very creditable 3rd at Punchestown when last seen 16 days ago. Her run that day left the impression that another win could be on the cards and the fact she was pulled up in this race 12 months ago should be ignored and she will make her presence felt. 

15/5/22 Naas + Killarney

 At Wexford on Saturday Ambitious Fellow came 2nd. The 3/1 shot tracked the leaders moving into 2nd 3 out. He briefly disputed the lead soon after but made no impression at the last allowing Authorized Art to win by 4 3/4 lengths. Over at Navan Arbutus failed to finish. The 4/6 favourite was 3rd when he was badly injured and pulled up 3 out. The race went to Cairde Go Deo who came home by 8 lengths. 

 Another double header takes place on Sunday with 8 races at both Naas and Killarney with three standout contests. 

Naas 2.45: Coolmore Stud Irish EBF Fillies Sprint Stakes (Group 3)

5: Matilta Picotte: A promising filly who showed impressive speed when winning at The Curragh on debut 2 weeks ago. She drew clear in the final furlong to easily win by 2 lengths and she gets the nod to follow up here.

Killarney 3.30: Kelly Farm Modernisation Ltd Handicap Hurdle (Grade B)

4: Glan: A good horse who's latest win was at Fairyhouse last month. She was going well until a mistake 3 out saw her being pulled up at Punchestown 18 days ago and she is worth another chance here to show she's moving in the right direction. 

Naas 3.45: Goffs Lacken Stakes (Group 3)

3: New York City: Has showed much improvement this season with 2 wins at Navan including his career best in a listed race 22 days ago. He beat another in this field Straight Answer and with his yard in good form he should complete his hat-trick here.

14/5/22 Wexford + Navan

 There were results at both ends of the scale for my picks on Friday night. At Leopardstown Kyprios was impressive, he made all the running going clear 2 out. He stayed on strongly going further clear inside the final furlong easily beating Sunchart by 14 lengths. Over at Kilbeggan Quantum Realm was 10th. The 4/1 favourite was prominent early but soon weakened while upfront Fest Deiz was the easy 12 length winner.

 A Saturday double header sees 7 races at both Wexford and Navan with two highlights. 

Wexford 2.30: Poolcourt Rated Hurdle.

5: Ambitious Fellow: A promising horse who had one win from three runs last season. He picked up his career best win at Punchestown on his return 17 days ago and should progress further here giving him the nod.

Navan 4.25: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Yeats Stakes.

1: Arbutus: This son of Galileo looked promising when winning a Maiden on debut over course and distance 3 weeks ago. He was well on top at the finish and with lots more to come he can give trainer Aidan O’Brien this race for a 4th year in a row.

13/5/22 Leopardstown + Kilbeggan

It was a decent day for my picks at Clonmel on Thursday with both of them finishing 2nd. In the 5.00 Prairie Dancer led early but was 2nd at halfway. He wasn't fluent at the last making no impression on the winner Gaelic Arc who came home by 6 1/2 lengths. The 5.35 saw Uncle Gerhard sit at the rear making headway from halfway. He made good progress early in the straight sitting 2nd two out. He challenged at the last keeping on well but just failing to reach the winner The Dasher Conway who won by a head. 

 A busy Friday night sees 7 races at both Leopardstown and Kilbeggan with two highlights. 

Leopardstown 7.30: Saval Beg Levmoss Stakes (Group 3)

2: Kyprios: A lightly-raced horse who picked up his career best win when beating Search For A Song by 2 3/4 lengths in the Vintage Crop Stakes at Navan 20 days ago. He is the one to beat and should follow up before going onto better things.

Kilbeggan 7.45: Lord Lariat Parading At Kilbeggan Races Handicap Chase. 

13: Quantum Realm: Was a very good second on this course 3 weeks ago. He was well clear of the rest and despite being lightly raced as a chaser plenty more is expected and he is worth a chance to go one better. 

12/5/22 Clonmel

 Wednesday wasn’t a great day for my picks at Gowran Park. In the opener Amanirenas was 4th,the 100/30 shot chased the leaders and was 4th at halfway. She moved into 3rd but made no impression soon after keeping on at one pace dropping a place. Warren Beach won the race by 3 lengths. The 3.15 saw You Owe Me Money finish 5th. The 11/2 chance sat in midfield making no impression in 5th from a furlong out. New York Angel was the winner by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 Eight races take place at Clonmel on Thursday with a couple standing out. 

5.00: Botanica International Rated Novice Hurdle. 

7: Prairie Dancer: Was impressive when easily winning a maiden hurdle by 9 1/2 lengths at Cork 25 days ago. He is back in better company here and can take the chance to follow up.

5.35: Talbot Hotel Clonmel Handicap Hurdle. 

12: Uncle Gerhard: Picked up his only career win so far in a hurdle at Gowran Park back in January but was a promising 3rd at Fairyhouse when last seen 24 days ago. He was given a lot to do in the closing stages that day but finished well and he can resume winning ways here.

11/5/22 Gowran Park

 After a day off Gowran Park is our destination on Wednesday for an 8 race card with two highlights. 

1.35: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

6: Amanirenas: A promising horse who was second at Dundalk when last seen 29 days ago. She may well have won if she hadn't drifted to the left at the last but with further improvement expected she is a player here. 

3.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

10: You Owe Me Money: Despite being winless in 11 starts she has every chance of opening her account here as long as she reproduces the form that saw her finish a solid 3rd on her reappearance at The Curragh in March. She was a bit below par here 34 days ago but has to be taken seriously. 

9/5/22 Results

 The week began on a high note with both my picks at Roscommon winning, in the 4.25 Comara went into the lead 1 1/2 furlongs out. She soon went clear staying on strongly in the final furlong easily beating Mccauley's Tavern by 6 1/2 lengths. The 6.00 saw Swan Bay make all the running never really being troubled comfortably coming home by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 After today's action Irish racing has a day off on Tuesday. There are meetings at Sedgefield, Chepstow, Beverley,Lingfield and Newcastle for you to enjoy. The next Irish card is at Gowran Park on Wednesday, my tips will be up on Tuesday night.

9/5/22 Roscommon

 Another good day saw two of my picks win at Leopardstown, in the 4.05 History was in midfield sitting 6th 3 out. She improved to lead inside the final furlong staying on well close to home beating Agartha by 3/4 of a length. In the Derby Trial Stone Age made all the running travelling well entering the straight. He went clear 1 1/2 furlongs out staying on strongly to impressively beat Glory Daze by 5 1/2 lengths, he was immediately cut from 12/1 to 3/1 favourite for the highlight at Epsom. The only horse who didn't win was Georgeville who finished 4th. He was 5th a furlong out gaining a place in the closing stages. Pretreville won the race by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 Another busy week begins with 7 races at Roscommon on Monday with 2 features. 

4.25: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

15: Comhra: A promising looking horse who was a good second on debut at The Curragh a week ago. Despite being no match for the winner she goes up in trip here and sets a solid standard. 

6.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race.

2: Swan Bay: A lightly-raced winner who was 6th behind Piz Badile in the Ballysax Stakes on his return at Leopardstown 37 days ago. He has race fitness on his side and the best form so should take all the beating. 

8/5/22 Leopardstown

 It was an excellent Saturday with all 3 of my picks winning. At Cork Kashi was 3rd at halfway moving into the lead 3 out. He asserted himself approaching the last keeping on well to beat Evenwood Sonofagun by 2 1/4 lengths. Over at Naas Tranquil Lady travelled very well to lead from 2 out. She stayed on to easily beat Lily Pond by 4 lengths. In the other race at Naas Drombeg Banner led after a furlong and despite being strongly pressed in the closing stages he kept on best under pressure holding on to win by a short head. 

 After a week of Derby trials at Chester and Lingfield there is one more at Leopardstown on Sunday as part of an 8 race card where 3 contests stand out.

4.05: Cornelscourt Stakes (Group 3)

3: History: A promising horse who improved with each run last season culminating in a victory at Gowran Park back in September. She came home by 2 1/2 lengths that day and with her yard having a good spell more is expected and she should follow up here.

4.35: Derby Trial Stakes (Group 3)

7: Stone Age: Progressed well in his juvenile season ending with an excellent second in a Group 1 over at Saint Cloud. He easily won by 9 lengths on his return at Navan in late March and can pick up his biggest win to date here.

5.05: Amethyst Stakes (Group 3)

2: Georgeville: A course winner in his career who needed the run when 8th to Layfayette in the Alleged Stakes at The Curragh 4 weeks ago. He will improve here putting him high on the shortlist for a yard who won this race 12 months ago. 

7/5/22 Cork + Naas

 It was a good end to the week for my picks,in the 6.00 at Cork Sacred Bridge won. The 5/6 favourite was prominent throughout and disputed the lead 2 out. She led narrowly inside the final 150 yards keeping on well to beat Ladies Church by a neck. At Downpatrick Reverse Polarity was 3rd. The 6/1 shot led early but was passed approaching the last. She made no impression on the run-in dropping to 3rd inside the final furlong. Hidden Land easily won by 13 lengths. In the other big race at Cork Mutasarref finished 5th. The 9/4 favourite led briefly a furlong out but was passed in the last 100 yards. He had no extra while upfront Lord Dudley won by a neck.

 A busy Saturday sees 7 races at Cork and 8 at Naas with 3 highlights. 

Cork 3.10: Coolagown Stud Rated Novice Hurdle. 

8: Kashi: A fair hurdler who despite being winless in 11 starts over obstacles ran better then ever when 2nd in a handicap hurdle at Naas 55 days ago. He kept on well and has a good chance here back up in trip.

Naas 3.25: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Blue Wind Stakes (Group 3)

7: Tranquil Lady: Last won at Galway back in September and was a creditable 4th behind Concert Hall in a listed race at Navan 2 weeks ago. She wasn't disgraced there and is a major player in this one.

Naas 5.35: Irish Racing Writers Handicap. 

3: Drombeg Banner: Showed improvement to win on his handicap debut at Cork 34 days ago. He kept on well that day and despite having a weight rise to contend with he can follow up here. 

6/5/22 Downpatrick + Cork

 Thursday was a day of differing fortunes for my picks at Tipperary,Full Noise finished 12th while in the 6.45 Darrens Hope won. The 10/11 favourite disputed the lead going clear 2 out. She kept on well on the run-in easily beating Siberian Prince by 7 lengths. 

 A Friday double header sees 7 races at both Downpatrick and Cork with 3 contests standing out.

 Cork 6.00: Goffs Irish EBF Polonia Stakes.

2: Sacred Bridge: Unbeaten in her first 4 starts but didn't live up to expectations when 4th behind Homeless Songs in a 1000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown on her return 34 days ago. She goes back down in trip here and should get back on the winning road.

Downpatrick 6.50: itba Supporting Northern Breeders Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

5: Reverse Polarity: Was In good form in the Autumn,a win at Tramore in August was followed up by a creditable 3rd at Kilbeggan a month later. She returns from a break here and has a big shout if performing to the same standard. 

Cork 7.00: Mallow Handicap. 

16: Mutasarref: A promising horse who made a winning debut for a new yard at Leopardstown 30 days ago. He came home by an impressive 2 1/2 lengths and with more to come he gets the vote. 

5/5/22 Tipperary

 It was a very poor day for both my picks at Gowran Park, in the 5.50 Annerville was 7th. The 5/1 shot made no impression from 2 out keeping on at one pace inside the final furlong without threatening, Yaxeni won the race by 1 1/4 lengths. Sadly it wasn’t much better in the 6.20 with Sultanov Swing finishing 6th. The 6/4 favourite was 4th at halfway but made no impression from a furlong out dropping to 6th. She had no extra while upfront Rumbles Of Thunder won by 3 lengths. 

 There is a seven race card at Tipperary on Thursday evening with two highlights. 

6.15: Tipperary Racecourse Handicap Chase. 

15: Full Noise: Has improved over hurdles with two good runs back in January. A 2 3/4 length win at Fairyhouse was followed up by a good second at Clonmel. Last month's return was needed and a much better showing is expected here giving him the nod.

6.45: Berkshire & Rich History @ Kedrah House Stud Beginners Chase. 

9: Darrens Hope: A useful chaser who's last win came at Limerick in March 2021. That was 11 runs ago and she was a below form 3rd behind Dolcita in a listed race at Fairyhouse when last seen 32 days ago. Despite that she stands out on form and should open her account for the year and over fences here.

4/5/22 Gowran Park

 On Tuesday at Ballinrobe Sequoiaspirit was 4th,the 5/2 favourite was 8th at halfway making headway from 2 out. He made a mistake at the last when 4th and was no threat in the straight keeping on at one pace. The race was won by Tullypole Annie who beat Peace Party by 2 1/4 lengths. In the 8.00 Nelly's Money finished 2nd,the 9/2 shot tracked the leaders and made progress to sit 3rd 2 out. She went second on the run-in but was no match for the winner Defan who easily won by 9 lengths. 

 Eight races take place at Gowran Park on Wednesday with two interesting listed contests standing out.

5.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Vintage Tipple Stakes.

1: Annerville: Was an excellent 2nd to Thunder Kiss in a listed race at Cork on her reappearance from a long break 18 days ago. She is open to further progress here and with her yard in good form she looks like the way to go.

6.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Victor Mccalmont Memorial Stakes.

5: Sultanov Swing: This filly looked impressive when winning a maiden over course and distance on debut 3 weeks ago. She came home by 3 lengths beating a big field and can follow up here.

3/5/22 Ballinrobe

 It was yet another mixed day for my picks on Monday. At Down Royal Angels Dawn was unlucky to be brought down at the last in a race won by Chinx Of Light. Over at The Curragh Twilight Spinner won, the 2/1 favourite was behind the leaders but made progress from 2 out. She disputed the lead a furlong from the finish leading soon after. She kept on strongly close to home comfortably beating Cigamia by 3 1/4 lengths. In the 4.05 Layfayette also won. The 3/1 chance made a challenge from 1 1/2 furlongs out moving into the lead a furlong out. He kept on well in the final furlong beating Bear Story by 3/4 of a length. 

 There are 8 races at Ballinrobe on Tuesday with two main events.

5.25: Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Sequoiaspirit: Despite being lightly raced over hurdles he produced an excellent performance to finish second at Limerick 26 days ago. He kept on well on the run-in and has to be taken seriously here.

8.00: Kpmg Handicap Chase. 

7: Nelly's Money: Last won at Wexford in March and was in the process of challenging when falling 2 out at Cork 2 weeks ago. The race was won by another in this field Kildorrery and the two should battle it out again here with Robert Tyner's horse coming out on top.

2/5/22 Down Royal + The Curragh

 Sunday was a mixed day for my picks at Sligo. In the 4.35 Sheishybrid was a non-runner, the race was won by Rosscarbery who came home by 1/2 a length. The 5.10 saw Nusret finish 2nd,the 30/100 favourite was 2nd at halfway travelling well to dispute the lead from 2 out. He had every chance in the closing stages keeping on but he was no match for the winner Irish Lullaby who won by a head.

 It's a busy Monday with 7 races at Down Royal and 8 at The Curragh and there are 3 highlights. 

Down Royal 3.10: Club Orange Hurdle. 

7: Angels Dawn: A useful hurdler who last won at Limerick in March. She was a creditable fifth in a handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse 16 days ago and should be taken seriously here.

The Curragh 3.30: Coolmore Stud Circus Maximus Irish EBF Athasi Stakes (Group 3)

5: Twilight Spinner: A filly in good form who was a respectable 3rd to Power Under Me in a listed race at Cork on her reappearance 29 days ago. She goes up in trip here and gets the nod. 

The Curragh 4.05: Coolmore Sottsass Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes (Group 2)

5: Layfayette: Picked up his career best win when taking the Alleged Stakes over course and distance 22 days ago. He beat 3 in this field that day and should complete his hat-trick here.