1/8/22 Naas + Cork

 Sunday was yet another poor day for my picks at Galway, in the 3.40 Cornerkova was a non-runner in a race won by Vado Forte while the 4.10 saw Casanova come 7th. The 5/1 favourite was towards the rear making headway 3 out. He tried to make progress from a furlong out but found no room and he weakened inside the final furlong. Current Option took the contest beating On A Session by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 A new month begins on Monday with 7 races at both Naas and Cork where there are 3 highlights. 

Naas 3.40: Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes.

10: Apricot Twist: A very promising horse who won over course and distance on debut 12 days ago. She impressively came home by 7 1/2 lengths and with progress expected she is a major player for a trainer who won this race 12 months ago. 

Naas 4.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

4: Are We Dreaming: Has steadily improved since her debut in June picking up 2 wins from her 6 runs. She was a respectable 5th when on a hat-trick at Cork 10 days ago however she wasn’t seen at her best and can get back to winning ways here. 

Cork 5.08: Buy Tickets Online at corkracecourse.ie Hurdle.

6: Ronald Pump: A smart horse who didn't show his best form when 7th in the Galway Plate just 5 days ago. He switches from chasing to hurdles here and this course and distance winner can quickly bounce back. 

31/7/22 Galway

 Saturday was another poor day for my picks at Galway, in the 2.30 La Prima Donna failed to finish. The 100/30 favourite was in midfield when she was hampered and brought down 3 out. The race was won by Hallowed Star who was unchallenged coming home by 17 lengths. The 4.15 saw Congo River finish 6th. The 100/30 shot was 5th at halfway moving up to 4th two out. He made no impression soon after weakening inside the final furlong. Pandora Lovegood won the race by a length. 

 The summer festival at Galway reaches it’s conclusion on Sunday with two final main events.

3.40: Lord Hemphill Memorial Handicap Chase.

7: Cornerkova: Is on a hat-trick after an easy win at Tipperary 2 weeks ago. She was left well clear at the last there and she is already a better chaser than a hurdler. With improvement expected the third win is on the cards here.

4.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Ahonoora' Handicap. 

4: Casanova: A course winner in his career who was a good second here just 5 days ago. He kept on well that day and this likeable horse is definitely worth another chance to go one better.

30/7/22 Galway

 If I thought Thursday was bad then Friday was even worse for my picks at Galway. In the 6.00 Spades Are Trumps was 13th, the 16/1 shot was always at the rear and made a mistake 4 out. He made no impression from 2 out while upfront Gabbys Cross won the race beating Busselton by 2 1/4 lengths. It wasn't any better in the 6.35 where Ruler Legend finished 15th. The 7/2 favourite was 4th at halfway disputing the lead from 4 out. He was passed 2 out soon having no extra. Sionnach Eile won the race by 6 1/2 lengths. 

 It's the penultimate day of the Galway Summer festival on Saturday with two more contests standing out. 

2.30: Boylesports Handicap Hurdle. 

14: La Prima Donna: A promising horse who won without any fuss at Tipperary 72 days ago. She came home by 4 3/4 lengths but has better to come now upped in trip and back in handicap company. 

4.15: Gra Chocolates Irish EBF Nursery Handicap. 

1: Congo River: Was a good third in a maiden at Listowel when last seen 55 days ago. That was only his second run and he makes his handicap debut here. Coming from the yard of Aidan O’Brien he is a big player who can get off the mark by taking this contest. 

29/7/22 Galway

 The least said about Thursday's poor showing by my picks the better,the only mildly decent performance came in the 2.45 where Sole Pretender was 6th. The 85/40 favourite led early increasing his advantage after the 3rd. His lead was reduced from the 5th but he asserted himself again before the 7th. He was passed 2 out weakening soon after. The race was won by Visionarian who beat Call Me Lyreen by 3/4 of a length. The 3.55 saw Night Of Romance finish 11th while in the 5.05 Party Central was a non-runner in a race won by Tudor City. 

 Eight more races take place at Galway on Friday where two stand out.

6.00: Guinness Galway Blazers Handicap Chase. 

19: Spades Are Trumps: Easily picked up his career best win when last seen at Downpatrick back in March. He came home by 6 lengths and seems to have been saved for this race. He goes down in trip here and definitely enters calculations. 

6.35: Guinness Handicap. 

18: Ruler Legend: After a 5 1/2 length win at Naas in May he went on to finish 9th behind Eldar Eldarov in the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot 44 days ago. He makes his handicap debut here and with more to offer over a trip that should suit he gets the vote in this big field. 

28/7/22 Galway

 Wednesday at Galway saw both my picks come 4th. In the 6.10 Hophornbeam tracked the leaders and was in midfield at halfway. She made no impression in 6th entering the straight and despite keeping on at the same pace she did gain two places. Outback Flyer won the race by 3 1/4 lengths. In the Galway Plate Ash Tree Meadow sat 7th at halfway improving to dispute the lead from 4 out. He was 2nd soon after pressing the leader approaching the straight. He was hampered by a loose horse and came under pressure in 4th a furlong out,he held on despite keeping on at one pace. Hewick beat Darasso by 1/2 a length. 

 There are another 8 races at Galway on Thursday on day 4 of the Summer Festival with three highlights.

2.45: Guinness Open Gate Brewery Novice Chase (Grade 3)

3: Sole Pretender: A promising horse who was a creditable 2nd behind Santa Rossa in the Grimes Hurdle at Tipperary when last seen a month ago. He definitely has more to come now back over fences and he is a big player here.

3.55: Arthur Guinness Irish EBF Corrib Fillies Stakes.

5: Night Of Romance: A useful filly who has 2 wins from 3 runs this year. She picked up her career best in a handicap at The Curragh 33 days ago asserting herself in the closing stages. Her stable is in good form and despite going up in class she can complete her hat-trick here.

5.05: Guinness Galway Hurdle Handicap. 

6: Party Central: Had a bit to spare when she won a listed race at Punchestown on her last outing 93 days ago, She travelled strongly and another big field here will suit. With further progress expected she is the pick.

27/7/22 Galway

 A poor day at Galway on Tuesday saw Tax For Max finish 4th. The Evens favourite was in midfield making a slight mistake at the 6th. He went 4th two out disputing 3rd inside the final furlong.  He had no extra in the closing stages allowing Flaming Moon to beat Amir Kabir by 1/2 a length. It was worse in the nights big race where Mosala came 17th. The 6/1 shot tracked the leaders but dropped to 9th two out. He weakened soon after while upfront Magic Chegaga won the race by 1/2 a length. 

 Day 3 of the Galway summer festival sees two features. 

6.10: Free Jackpot All Customers At tote.ie Irish EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

7: Hophornbeam: Picked up her latest win at Cartmel in June and was a creditable 2nd when on a hat-trick behind Innisfree Beauty when last seen at Sligo 17 days ago. She continues to run well for her new yard and has to be taken seriously here. 

6.40: Tote Galway Plate.

19: Ash Tree Meadow: An improving chaser who easily completed his hat-trick when beating The Little Yank by 6 lengths at Killarney 12 days ago. He goes significantly up in trip here but his trainer has won three of the past six running’s of this race and this exciting prospect can add to that record and take this competitive renewal. 

26/7/22 Galway

 On Monday at Galway the best performance came from Hms Seahorse who was 3rd. The 1/2 favourite led but wasn't fluent from the 2nd. He was strongly pressed at the last being passed a furlong out. He had no extra in the closing stages dropping to 3rd close to home,Royal Eagle won by 3 lengths. In the 6.40 Farout came 7th. The 9/2 shot was 3rd at halfway leading from 5 out. He increased his advantage 3 out but it was reduced soon after. He was passed approaching the straight weakening from a furlong out. Echoes In Rain won the race by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 Day 2 of the Galway Summer Festival is on Tuesday with another seven races and two main events. 

5.10: Colm Quinn BMW Novice Hurdle. 

3: Tax For Max: A useful hurdler who comfortably came home by 3 1/2 lengths at Punchestown when last seen 59 days ago. On form this 5yo is the one to beat in this intriguing listed contest.

6.40: Colm Quinn BMW Mile. 

12: Mosala: Was a creditable 3rd in the Nasrallah Handicap at Leopardstown 19 days ago. He travelled well that day with Only Casanova and Jungle Cove in front of him. Another performance like that in this big field gives him the nod in what will be a competitive race. 

25/7/22 Galway

 After a day off Irish racing returns on Monday with 7 races on the 1st day of the Galway summer festival and two stand out.

5.10: Galmont.com & Galwaybayhotel.com Novice Hurdle. 

2: Hms Seahorse: A useful horse who made a good start over hurdles earlier this year winning at Fairyhouse and then finishing 4th in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival. He arrives after picking up his career best win on the flat at The Curragh 29 days ago and should continue his good hurdles form here.

6.40: Connacht Hotel Premier Handicap. 

20: Farout: A good winner over hurdles who was fifth at Leopardstown on his Irish flat debut when last seen 73 days ago. He finished well that day with his performance showing that a stiffer test like this race should suit. His trainer Willie Mullins has won 3 of the last 5 runnings of this race and can win again with this big player. 

23/7/22 Results

 At Gowran Park on Saturday Karaoke was 2nd. The 5/6 favourite tracked the leader in 2nd for most of the way. She improved to briefly dispute the lead from 2 out. She was passed 1 1/2 furlongs out staying on well in 2nd inside the closing stages, Thebestisyettobe won the race by 1/2 a length. In the other race Janoobi was a non-runner, Shark Bay won the contest by a head. 

 After today's action there is no Irish racing on Sunday. There are meetings at Chelmsford, Uttoxeter and Pontefract where the listed Pomfret Stakes is the standout race. The next Irish card is at Galway on Monday. Tips for the highlights will be up on Sunday night.

23/7/22 Gowran Park

 At Cork on Friday Erosandpsyche won. The 5/2 favourite disputed the lead taking over top spot from 2 out. He kept on well inside the final furlong just holding on to beat Harmony Rose by a short head. In the big race at Down Royal Master Of Reality was a non-runner, Peroton won the listed contest by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 A quiet weekend begins with 8 races at Gowran Park on Saturday where there are two highlights. 

1.45: Irish EBF Auction Series Fillies Maiden. 

1: Karaoke: This newcomer is a half-sister to 2014 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf winner Hootenanny and on paper she catches the eye on this her debut. She comes from the yard of Joseph O’Brien who has been in good recent form and she can get off the mark here.

4.40: Tote Always Sp Or Better @ Gowran Park Race.

5: Janoobi: Picked up his first win at Cork when last seen 66 days ago. He came home by a comfortable 3 1/4 lengths and with more to offer plus going up in trip he has leading claims here for a yard having a good spell. 

22/7/22 Cork + Down Royal

 Thursday was a good day for all my picks,at Leopardstown Never Ending Story won. The 5/6 favourite was 4th at halfway making progress from 2 out. She challenged soon after leading inside the final furlong. She kept on well beating Zionnocent by 1/2 a length. In the other Group 3 Age Of Kings finished 3rd. The 15/8 favourite had a poor start but was soon sitting 2nd. He made no impression from 1 1/2 furlongs out dropping to 3rd in the closing stages. Proud And Regal won by 1 1/4 lengths. Over at Limerick The Bosses Oscar won. The 11/10 favourite challenged from 3 out leading entering the straight. He asserted himself before the last beating Dallas Des Pictons by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 Seven races at both Cork and Down Royal on Friday evening round off the week with two features. 

Cork 7.15: Doneraile Handicap. 

3: Erosandpsyche: Has run well in big-field handicaps at The Curragh this year for his new yard including a creditable 4th in the Rockingham 26 days ago. He should put in another good performance here giving him a big shout. 

Down Royal 7.30: Her Majesty's Plate. 

4: Master Of Reality: A smart horse who wasn’t at his best when 6th in the Curragh Cup last time. That run can be overlooked and he can bounce back here and take this race for a 3rd year in a row after winning by 1 3/4 lengths 12 months ago. 

21/7/22 Leopardstown + Limerick

 Wednesday was a mixed day for my 3 picks,at Naas Ano Syra was 4th. The 5/1 shot was 7th at halfway. She made progress to sit 5th 2 out keeping on well to gain a place close to home, Pirate Jenny won the race by 3/4 of a length. In the other big Naas race Lady Hollywood won,the 100/30 chance was 3rd early making headway to lead from a furlong out. She kept on well in the closing stages beating Mauiewawie by 1 1/2 lengths. At Limerick Chinx Of Light failed to finish. The 6/5 favourite was leading when he fell at the 6th. Mi Lighthouse won by a neck.

 Two more meetings take place on Thursday with 7 races at both Leopardstown and Limerick with 3 contests standing out. 

Leopardstown 6.00: Silver Flash Stakes (Group 3)

3: Never Ending Story: A horse with promise who won a maiden at The Curragh when last seen 27 days ago. She was suited by the increase in trip that day and with improvement likely expect a bold show from this exciting prospect who can give her trainer another win in this race.

Leopardstown 6.30: Japan Racing Association Tyros Stakes (Group 3)

1: Age Of Kings: A lightly-raced winner who was 4th behind Shartash in the Railway Stakes at The Curragh 26 days ago. The step up to 7f should suit and he looks like the one to beat.

Limerick 6.45: Shoe Rescue Hurdle. 

2: The Bosses Oscar: A useful chaser who despite not winning in his last 12 runs produced an encouraging performance when 2nd at Wexford 57 days ago. On form he is a leading contender here and he can get back to winning ways. 

20/7/22 Naas + Limerick

 Tuesday was another decent day for my picks at Ballinrobe, in the 6.00 Lieutenant Highway won. The 6/4 favourite led for a second time before the last and despite a slight mistake soon after he asserted himself keeping on strongly on the run-in easily beating Great Realisation by 9 lengths. In the next Island Mahee finished 5th. The 100/30 shot tracked the leaders sitting 3rd at halfway. She was 4th from 2 out after a mistake soon making no impression, Galon De Vauzelle won the race by a nose. 

 The weeks first double header takes place on Wednesday with 7 races at both Naas and Limerick where we have 3 main events. 

Naas 6.30: Yeomanstown Stud Irish EBF Stakes.

5: Ano Syra: Made it 3 wins from 4 handicap starts when taking victory at The Curragh 24 days ago. She should take the step up in grade here in her stride and complete her hat-trick. 

Naas 7.00: Arqana Irish EBF Marwell Stakes.

5: Lady Hollywood: A promising horse who has 2 wins from 4 runs this year. She picked up her career best at Beverley 8 days ago where she came home by 3 lengths and with plenty more to come the step up in class shouldn't faze her and she can make it 3 in a row here.

Limerick 7.15: Patrickswell Novice Chase. 

3: Chinx Of Light: A promising individual who has been a good winner over hurdles. He was a decent 2nd at Kilbeggan on his fences debut 12 days ago only losing by a head,he should improve going one better.

19/7/22 Ballinrobe

 Monday saw some good results for both my picks at Ballinrobe, in the 6.05 Red Azalea won. The 8/13 favourite led early and despite being briefly joined a furlong out she regained the lead inside the final furlong.  She stayed on well to beat Roman Bull by 2 1/2 lengths. The 7.05 saw Laelaps finish 2nd. The 11/4 shot was 3rd early going into 2nd three out. He led from a furlong out but was passed close to home. He kept on at the same pace losing to Takeachancejimmy by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 The week continues with 8 races at Ballinrobe on Tuesday evening where two stand out.

6.00: Brewin Dolphin Rated Novice Hurdle. 

2: Lieutenant Highway: A useful hurdler who is on a hat-trick after wins at Clonmel in May and Downpatrick at the beginning of last month. He has good claims and should pick up another win here.

6.30: Boylesports Handicap Hurdle.

3: Island Mahee: Picked up her career best win at Cartmel 23 days ago. She went clear on the run-in to easily come home by 5 1/2 lengths and going back up in trip here means she has to be taken seriously as she bids to complete a hat-trick. 

18/7/22 Ballinrobe

 It was another decent day for my picks on Sunday,at The Curragh Order Of Australia won. The 4/5 favourite made all the running asserting himself from a furlong out. He had a 2 length lead soon after pulling clear. He kept on well easily beating Pearls Galore by 3 1/2 lengths. In the other Group 2 Purplepay was 5th. The Evens favourite was prominent briefly leading from a furlong out. She was passed inside the final furlong offering no extra,Lilly Pond won the race by 1/2 a length. At Tipperary Cornerkova won. The 4/1 chance travelled well from 5 out leading at the last. She was left clear on the run-in after 2 fell at the last coming home by a massive 75 lengths. 

 We begin the week with 7 races at Ballinrobe on Monday with 2 highlights. 

6.05: Sp Or Better Guaranteed With Tote Maiden.

8: Red Azalea: A useful filly who was a respectable 4th when last seen at Listowel 44 days ago. She put in her challenge early in the straight but wasn't able to quicken,despite that looking at this field she should come out on top going back up in trip.

7.05: Get Galway Ready with tote.ie Handicap.

2: Laelaps: Was a good third at The Curragh 23 days ago. That was his best recent performance and it showed that another win for him is definitely on the cards, his yard is in good form so that could come here with this 4yo being a big player.  

17/7/22 The Curragh + Tipperary

 Saturday was a good day for both my picks at The Curragh, the 3.10 saw Mooneista finish 2nd. The 2/1 favourite was 3rd at halfway and travelled well to lead from a furlong out. She was strongly pressed in the final 100 yards being passed in the last strides by Ladies Church who won by a short head. In the Irish Oaks Magical Lagoon won. The 5/4 favourite was prominent sitting 2nd after a furlong.  She closed on the leader entering the straight taking top spot 2 out. Despite being challenged she kept on well under pressure holding on close to home beating Toy by 1/2 a length. 

 A brilliant weekend concludes on Sunday with 8 races at The Curragh and 7 at Tipperary and there are 3 features. 

The Curragh 2.10: Romanised Minstrel Stakes (Group 2)

1: Order Of Australia: Won this race last year and can build on his reappearance where he was a creditable 3rd in the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot with a repeat here. He is the one to beat as he bids for back-to-back victory’s in this contest. 

The Curragh 3.55: Kilboy Estate Stakes (Group 2)

3: Purplepay: A smart filly who wasn’t disgraced when fifth behind La Petite Coco in the Pretty Polly Stakes on this course 3 weeks ago. She is already a Group 2 winner in France this season and the shorter trip here will suit.

Tipperary 4.41: Tipperary Town Plate Handicap Chase. 

4: Cornertova: A promising horse who picked up her career best win in a novice chase at Clonmel 37 days ago.  She goes back up in trip for this her handicap chase debut and should follow up.

16/7/22 The Curragh

 Friday was another good day for my picks with both of them winning,at Killarney The Dara Man disputed the lead early and despite a mistake 4 out he led soon after. He asserted himself before the last keeping on strongly on the run-in beating Ferdia by 9 lengths. Over at Kilbeggan Swelltime was 3rd at halfway going 2nd two out. He led before the last soon going clear to comfortably beat Scalor by 8 lengths. 

 A weekend of top-class action at The Curragh begins with 7 races on Saturday with two stand out contests. 

3.10: Barbarstown Castle Sapphire Stakes (Group 2)

2: Mooneista: A smart filly who was a respectable 4th behind Nature Strip in the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot 32 days ago. She won this race last year and on form can again. 

3.45: Juddmonte Irish Oaks (Group 1)

6: Magical Lagoon: A promising horse who picked up her career best win taking the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot 30 days ago. She beat Sea Silk Road by 1/2 a length and with plenty more to come she looks like the way to go here now that Emily Upjohn is out.

15/7/22 Killarney + Kilbeggan

 Thursday was another brilliant day for my picks,at Killarney Molly Wedger won. The 6/4 favourite tracked the leaders and was 3rd at halfway. She made good headway to lead entering the straight and despite being challenged briefly from 2 out she asserted herself on the run-in beating Hollymount by 2 1/2 lengths. In the big race at Leopardstown Bear Story was 2nd. The 11/2 shot led early but faced a strong challenge from a furlong out. He was passed and outpaced inside the final furlong by Boundless Ocean who won by 3 1/4 lengths. 

 Seven races at both Killarney and Kilbeggan on Friday round off the week with two highlights. 

Killarney 4.35: Boylesports Handicap Chase. 

7: The Dara Man: Was a creditable 4th in a handicap hurdle at Sligo when last seen just 5 days ago. That was his best recent effort and he goes well over fences having picked up an 11 length win at Limerick back in March giving him an excellent chance here.

Kilbeggan 6.30: Every Race Live On Racing TV Handicap Hurdle. 

5: Swelltime: Despite it being 11 runs since his last win he was a respectable 7th at Cork a week ago. He was left with too much to do there but with improvement expected he should go well and is worth another chance. 

14/7/22 Killarney + Leopardstown

 Wednesday was an excellent day with both my picks winning,at Downpatrick Ebasari was 2nd at halfway leading after the last. He kept on well easily beating Don't Get It by 6 1/2 lengths. Over at Killarney Cigamia made good headway from 2 out challenging inside the final furlong. She led on the line beating Panama Red by a short head. 

 It's the weeks 3rd double header on Thursday with 8 races at Killarney and 7 at Leopardstown with two main events. 

Killarney 5.30: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Hurdle. 

5: Molly Wedger: A useful hurdler who wasn't at her best when 9th at Bellewstown 12 days ago. She was unsuited by the drop in trip there but stepping back up to 2m 4f here gives her a big chance.

Leopardstown 7.20: Green Room Meld Stakes (Group 3)

1: Bear Story: A good horse who was a decent fifth behind Aikhal in the International Stakes at The Curragh when last seen 19 days ago. He went for home a bit too early that day but on form he has good claims and can open his account for the season.

13/7/22 Downpatrick + Killarney

 Tuesday was a poor day for both my picks,at Dundalk Adams Barbour was 5th. The 7/1 shot was 4th entering the straight but made no impression from a furlong out. He kept on at one pace while upfront Harry's Bar beat Jarvis by 2 lengths. It was worse at Killarney where Onameridance finished 6th. The 7/4 favourite was prominent early disputing 2nd at halfway. She was short of room from 2 out weakening in the final furlong. Irish Lullaby won the race by 3 3/4 lengths. 

 It's another busy day on Wednesday with 7 races at both Downpatrick and Killarney with two features. 

Downpatrick 3.10: Downpatrick Racecourse Family Day Hurdle. 

3: Ebasari: A lightly-raced winner over hurdles who was last seen finishing a disappointing 20th in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival. He was well held until a bad mistake at the last ended his hopes however he has a big chance here returning in calmer waters. 

Killarney 6.40: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Cairn Rouge Stakes.

5: Cigamia: A course and distance winner back in May who went on to be a very good 4th in the Sandringham at Royal Ascot 26 days ago. She definitely wasn't disgraced that day and on form she has a good chance to win here again. 

12/7/22 Dundalk + Killarney

 It was a decent start to the week for my picks at Killarney, in the 5.45 Mctigue was 2nd. The Evens favourite was at the rear making progress from 3 out. He made no impression a furlong from the finish but he moved into 2nd inside the final furlong, Didn'thavemuchtodo won the race by 5 lengths. The 7.45 saw San Martino finish 4th. The 15/2 shot was 4th from a furlong out making no impression. He kept on at the same pace inside the final furlong allowing Shark Bay to beat Good Heavens by a Neck. 

 The week continues with 7 races at both Dundalk and Killarney on Tuesday with two standing out.

Dundalk 2.20: William Hill Bet Boost Hotel Handicap. 

4: Adams Barbour: A five time course and distance winner who has three victory’s from 8 runs this year. He was 7th in a listed race at Naas 78 days ago but can get back on track returning to the All-weather here.

Killarney 8.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

2: Onameridance: A promising horse who picked up her career best win at Down Royal 24 days ago. She easily came home by 8 1/2 lengths and despite a weight rise the way she won that day shows there is more to come and on form she can follow up.

11/7/22 Killarney

 Sunday was a poor day for both my picks,at Sligo Red Ball Of Fire was 8th. The 7/2 favourite was at the rear sitting 6th after the fifth. She made no impression before the last weakening on the run-in, Skippin Court won the race by 3 1/4 lengths. It was only slightly better in the big race at Fairyhouse where Affogato finished 6th. The 11/4 shot was held up early making progress from 2 out. She was 5th a furlong from the finish but soon made no impression dropping a place. The race was won by Marbling who beat Nectaris by a nose.

 A busy week begins with 7 races at Killarney on Monday evening with two highlights. 

5.45: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race.

1: Mctigue: A useful horse who was a creditable 3rd in a handicap at Leopardstown when last seen just 4 days ago. In a small field he looks like the one to beat continuing his good recent form.

7.45: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Race.

1: San Martino: A course winner in his career who despite not tasting success in his last 12 runs was a good 2nd at Fairyhouse 31 days ago. Since wearing cheekpieces he has taken a step forward and he is in with a good chance here,in a tight race he just gets the nod.

10/7/22 Sligo + Fairyhouse

 Saturday was an interesting day for my picks at Navan, in the 1.37 Rumbled Again was 7th. The 9/2 shot disputed the lead but dropped down the field from halfway. He weakened soon after while upfront As It Was beat Blue News by 1 3/4 lengths. In the other big race Reinforce finished 3rd. The 11/10 favourite sat 2nd early but made no impression from a furlong out. He had no extra close to home dropping to 3rd,the race was won by Kodi Red who beat Wild Rover by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 Seven races at both Sligo and Fairyhouse take place on Sunday with a couple of main events. 

Sligo 3.20: Friends Of Brian Mulligan Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. 

5: Red Ball Of Fire: Picked up both her wins last season on this course and returned to finish a creditable 3rd 19 days ago despite not getting a clear run. She switches from the flat to hurdles and is worth another look.

Fairyhouse 4.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Brownstown Stakes (Group 3)

5: Affogato: Achieved her second win of the year over course and distance when last seen 30 days ago. She easily came home by 4 1/4 lengths and with further improvement expected she could give her trainer a third win in this race since 2015.

9/7/22 Navan

 Friday was a mixed day for my picks, at Cork Darver Star was 2nd. The 100/30 shot led from 3 out but faced a strong challenge soon after. He was passed approaching the last but rallied on the run-in. Just failing to reach the winner Whisky Sour who came home by 1/2 a length. At Kilbeggan Ilikedwayurthinkin failed to finish. The 100/30 favourite was at the rear after a mistake at the 7th and he was pulled up after the next. Hurricane Georgie won the race by an easy 13 lengths. 

 Seven races at Navan on Saturday begin the weekend where there are two features. 

1.37: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

10: Rumbled Again: A lightly-raced horse who was an excellent 2nd at Listowel 35 days ago. He showed plenty of speed despite a bad draw with the run being a step in the right direction and he sets a high standard here.

2.12: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

6: Reinforce: An interesting colt who took a big step forward from his debut when 3rd at Fairyhouse a month ago. In a big field he kept on well and with further progress likely a repeat performance could well be enough giving him the nod.

8/7/22 Cork + Kilbeggan

 Out of Thursday's 3 picks the best performance came in the 8.00 at Leopardstown where Rosscarbery won,the 15/8 favourite made headway from 2 out leading soon after. She went clear a furlong from the finish but soon faced a strong challenge,she kept on well when pressed in the final 110 yards just doing enough to beat Emily Dickinson by a short head. In the other races Mazagran was 5th while Flying Dolphin finished 8th.

 It's another double header to round off the week with 7 races at both Cork and Kilbeggan on Friday evening with two main events. 

Cork 7.35: Hothouse Flowers Play Live After Racing Hurdle. 

1:Darver Star: A smart hurdler who was a disappointing 7th behind Darasso in the Ballybin Hurdle at Fairyhouse when last seen 81 days ago. He looks the form pick here and with his stable on a good run he should bounce back. 

Kilbeggan 7.50: Axa Farm Insurance Midlands National Handicap Chase. 

11: Ilikedwayurthinkin: A decent horse who was a creditable 2nd in the Mayo National at Ballinrobe 38 days ago. He kept on well in the closing stages and despite a weight rise he is unexposed over this trip and gets the nod. 

7/7/22 Limerick + Leopardstown

 Wednesday was a poor day for my picks at Fairyhouse, in the 5.25 Ebendi was 5th. The 6/4 favourite was in touch sitting 2nd at halfway. He made no impression in 3rd from 2 out dropping down the field soon after offering no extra. Nibiru won the race by 2 lengths. It wasn't much better in the 7.30 with Ice Cold In Alex finishing 6th. The 11/4 favourite was slowly into his stride not getting a clear run from a furlong out. He ran on inside the final furlong but couldn't reach the leaders,Lexington Dash beat Is That Love by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There are 2 meetings on Thursday evening with 7 races at both Limerick and Leopardstown with 3 contests standing out.

Limerick 7.15: Annacotty Rated Race.

1: Mazagran: A useful horse who won this race last year and was a good 2nd over course and distance on his reappearance 26 days ago. He should challenge again and go one better.

Leopardstown 7.30: Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Nasrullah' Handicap. 

10: Flying Dolphin: A lightly-raced winner who last tasted success at Gowran Park in May. He was a fine fifth in the King George v Stakes at Royal Ascot 3 weeks ago. Despite not being ideally placed he stayed on well towards the finish and should be taken seriously here.

Leopardstown 8.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Stanerra Stakes (Group 3)

2: Rosscarbery: A smart filly who ran an excellent race to finish 3rd behind La Petite Coco in the Pretty Polly Stakes at The Curragh 11 days ago. Despite being disqualified after when her rider weighed in light and demoted to 9th she should still go well again here.

6/7/22 Fairyhouse

 After a day off Irish racing returns with 8 races at Fairyhouse on Wednesday and 2 main events. 

5.25: Fairyhouse Sumner BBQ Rated Race.

1: Ebendi: A useful horse who was a respectable 2nd at Killarney on his reappearance 50 days ago. He pulled clear of the rest that day just failing to get past the unbeaten Beamish and he should go one better here.

7.30: La Bucca Restaurants Handicap. 

7: Ice Cold In Alex: Got back on track when a good third at The Curragh 12 days ago. In a big field he travelled well and with his yard in decent form he should challenge again here building on that run and resuming winning ways. 

4/7/22 Results

 It was a day of mixed fortunes for my picks at Roscommon, in the 6.00 Deja Rouge was 6th. The 100/30 shot was 3rd four out and in touch with the leaders. He sat 4th two out but after switching to the right he dropped down the field weakening, Mister Beeton won the race by 5 lengths. In the next Salvador Ziggy won,the 5/6 favourite was prominent and despite not being fluent he made headway from 2 out. He disputed the lead approaching the last moving into top spot on the run-in. He stayed on well to beat Dovlator by 1 1/4 lengths. 

After Monday's action there is no Irish racing on Tuesday,there are meetings at Wolverhampton, Pontefract, Brighton, Ffos Las and Uttoxeter. The next Irish card is at Fairyhouse on Wednesday, tips for the highlights will be up on Tuesday night.

4/7/22 Roscommon

 It was an excellent end to the weekend with both my picks at Tramore winning. In the 2.35 Dartington was 4th at halfway disputing the lead from 2 out. The 13/8 favourite led narrowly before the last keeping on best on the run-in, he beat Tom Mcgreevy by 1/2 a length. The 5.30 saw Easy Game making all the running gaining a 5 length advantage at halfway. The 2/9 favourite asserted himself before the last easily beating Dromore Lad by 9 1/2 lengths. 

 A new week begins with 7 races at Roscommon on Monday evening with two highlights. 

6.00: Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle. 

3: Deja Rouge: Made a promising debut when fifth at Fairyhouse in November last year,however he failed to follow that up when he was at below par 9th at Naas a month later. Despite being off 6 months his trainer is going well and he sets a good standard on form so is worth another chance here. 

6.30: Supervalu Co. Roscommon Ladies Day Rated Novice Hurdle. 

1: Salvador Ziggy: An interesting horse who picked up his career best win on his first run for Gordon Elliott at Punchestown five weeks ago. He won by 1 1/4 lengths that day and with more to come his improvement can continue with a follow up win here.

3/7/22 Tramore

 Saturday wasn’t a bad day for my picks,at Naas Victoria Road was 2nd. The 15/8 favourite led at halfway but after edging to the left 2 out he was strongly pressed being passed soon after. He made no impression keeping on at one pace allowing Keepupwithmyempire to win by 4 lengths. In the big race at Bellewstown Rich Belief finished 4th. The 8/1 shot tracked the leaders early sitting 3rd three out. He made no impression before the last having no extra on the run-in. Upfront Anna Bunina beat Hidden Land by 4 1/2 lengths. 

 There are seven races at Tramore on Sunday where two stand out.

2.35: Tote Guarantee On All Win Bets Rated Novice Hurdle. 

1: Dartington: A useful hurdler who got back on track when picking up his career best win at Wexford 18 days ago. He was 1 1/2 lengths clear by the end and should give another good account of himself here. 

5.30: Goodenough2eat Banqueting At Tramore Racecourse Chase.

1: Easy Game: A high-class chaser who has been a course winner in his career. He didn't need to be at his best to take victory at Listowel 27 days ago completing a hat-trick. In a small field he gets the nod to make it 4 in a row. 

2/7/22 Naas + Bellewstown

 At Bellewstown on Friday Lakota Seven won,the 8/13 favourite was 10th 3 out. He improved to sit 5th a furlong from the finish making good headway to lead inside the final furlong. He stayed on strongly close to home beating Roman Hands by 2 1/2 lengths. Over at Wexford Crazywork De Vassy failed to finish. The 7/1 chance tracked the leaders and was 4th at halfway. He dropped to the rear from 4 out offering no extra being pulled up before 2 out. Upfront Bold Emperor won by an easy 15 lengths. 

 The weekend begins with 8 races at both Naas and Bellewstown with two standing out. 

Naas 2.00: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race.

1: Victoria Road: A promising horse who was 2nd at The Curragh when last seen 8 days ago. He stuck to his task well there and with more to come he should take some stopping here.

Bellewstown 5.35: Bar One Racing Bellewstown Handicap Hurdle. 

6: Rich Belief: Last won at Kelso in May and was a creditable second at Limerick 2 weeks ago. He ran on late to grab the runner up spot that day and his recent progression should continue as he switches from the flat to hurdles here attempting to finish off a good spell with another win.