1/9/23 Wexford & Down Royal

 Thursday's best at Navan came from Tourist who was 3rd, the 8/13 favourite was up with the leaders making headway sitting 2nd two out. He travelled well until the final furlong where he kept on at the same pace losing 2nd close to home, Francis Meynell beat Emerald Banner by 3/4 of a length. The other pick Courageous Strike was 8th in a race won by Nika Pika who beat Guest Star by a neck.

 A new month begins on Friday with seven races at both Wexford and Down Royal with two standing out. 

Wexford 6.25: Slaney River Rated Novice Chase. 

2: Lucky Zebo: A useful horse who put in a career best performance to pick up his 3rd win this year on fences debut at Kilbeggan 49 days ago. He led approaching the last asserting himself and keeping on well to easily come home by 6 lengths. There is definitely more progress expected in this sphere and he can make it 4 in a row here.

Down Royal 6.35: Pepsico (Walkers Snacks) Hurdle. 

2: Whiskey Sour: A useful hurdler who arrives here after finishing a good fifth on the flat at Galway 32 days ago. He led from 3 out but was passed 1 1/2 from the finish keeping on at one pace. He switches back to hurdles here and can take this competitive contest. 

31/8/23 Navan

 On a very poor Wednesday Local Girl was 7th at Cork in a race won by Gypsy Woman the 11/4 favourite beat Vadiana by 1 1/2 lengths while over at Bellewstown Uhtred failed to finish. The 6/1 shot made some headway 2 out but was pulled up before the last, upfront Dartan beat Clifftop by an easy 6 1/2 lengths. 

 Navan stages eight races on Thursday where there are two highlights. 

2.35: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. 

2: Tourist: A decent colt who has shown useful form at Naas this year twice finishing second his latest being towards the end of May. He ran well leading until the final 100 yards losing to the excellent River Tiber by 2 1/2 lengths. Despite being off 102 days this looks like a good opportunity for him to go one better. 

3.05: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Claiming Maiden.

2: Courageous Strike: A lightly-raced horse who found the step up to group level too much when fifth behind Henry Longfellow in the Futurity Stakes at The Curragh on his last outing 12 days ago. A line can be put through that performance and dropping back down in grade here can see him open his account. 

30/8/23 Cork & Bellewstown

 The winner on Tuesday at Bellewstown was Buddy Batt, the 11/2 shot tracked the leaders making good headway to lead inside the final furlong. He stayed on well to beat Janzoor by 1 1/2 lengths. In the earlier race Not Forgotten finished 3rd, the 11/4 chance was at the rear of midfield early improving to sit 4th a furlong out. He kept on at one pace going 3rd close to home. Upfront Woodcock Flight beat Beauty Bella by a comfortable 4 1/4 lengths. 

 The weeks second double header takes place on Wednesday with seven races at Cork and eight at Bellewstown with two features. 

Cork 4.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

8: Local Girl: A promising horse who has improved on each of her three runs culminating with a second at Leopardstown when last seen 41 days ago. She travelled well staying on and moving into 2nd in the closing stages just failing to reach the winner. There is definitely more to come on this her handicap debut and she can go one better. 

Bellewstown 5.40: Bective Stud Tea Rooms & Apartments Mullacurry Cup Handicap Hurdle. 

7: Uhtred: Had his first run for Gordon Elliott when a good second at Killarney 40 days ago. He challenged at the last but made no impression on the run-in, despite that improvement is expected and he tops the shortlist as he looks for a 6th career win.

29/8/23 Bellewstown

 The best on a poor Monday came at Ballinrobe where Samui was 4th, the 1/1 favourite tracked the leaders disputing 2nd at halfway. He improved to challenge 3 out but made no impression at the last. He kept on at the same pace on the run-in while upfront Charlie Luciano beat Calico by a neck. At Downpatrick Gentleman Joe was 8th in a race won by Grozni who beat Typical Thomas by 3 3/4 lengths. 

 The week continues with 8 races at Bellewstown on Tuesday where there are 2 main events. 

4.05: Tynan's Bridge House Bar Irish EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

4: Not Forgotten: A lightly-raced horse who put in a career best performance when second at Dundalk two weeks ago. He was left with a lot to do but still made good progress in the closing stages and this is a decent opportunity for him to get off the mark.

6.10: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

6: Buddy Batt: Had shown decent form in his first two starts including a 3rd on this course on debut in July. He shouldn’t be judged on his 10th place finish at Cork 11 days ago as he was unsuited by how the race was run on the far side. He stays at 5f here and with a better showing on the cards he can open his account. 

28/8/23 Downpatrick & Ballinrobe

 The winner on Sunday at Naas came in the Group 3 where Ocean Quest disputed the lead moving to the front 1 1/2 furlongs out. The 10/11 favourite was clear soon after staying on strongly in the final furlong easily beating Aussie Girl by 3 3/4 lengths. The days other pick Tannola was 2nd, the 11/10 favourite tracked the leaders sitting 2nd two out. She kept on at the same pace in the final furlong allowing Kitty Rose to win by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 A new Irish racing week begins on Monday with 7 races at Downpatrick and 8 at Ballinrobe with 2 standing out. 

Downpatrick 4.20: Dennison Commercials Opportunity Beginners Chase. 

2: Gentleman Joe: A useful winner on the flat and over hurdles who showed promise when second on fences debut at Roscommon 20 days ago. He travelled well to dispute the lead 3 out but was passed before the last making no impression on the run-in. His trainer is having a good spell and with improvement likely he can take this.

Ballinrobe 5.05: Hollymount Nursing Home Handicap Hurdle. 

3: Samui: Has two wins already this year his latest came at Tramore in June. He was a creditable 2nd in a novice hurdle at Galway when last seen a month ago and on form he can make his handicap hurdle debut a successful one. 

27/8/23 Naas

 Saturday's only winner at The Curragh was Coeur D'or, the 8/1 shot was in midfield making headway from 2 out. He ran on well in the final 110 yards leading towards the finish beating Blues Emperor by a neck. In the Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes American Sonja finished 2nd, the 9/4 favourite led for a second time 2 out but was strongly pressed inside the final furlong. She was passed in the last 150 yards by Red Riding Hood who won by a neck. The other pick Mountain Bear was 4th in a race won by Letsbefrankaboutit who beat Mansa Musa by 1/2 a length. 

 Eight races at Naas on Sunday round off the weekend with two taking centre stage.

1.30: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Fillies Maiden. 

10: Tannola: A promising horse who was a good second on debut at Galway 26 days ago, She was clear of the third placed finisher Kalispera who has gone on to run well in Group 2 company. With improvement expected she can go one better here making her the one to beat. 

3.15: Tally-Ho Stud Irish EBF Ballyogan Stakes (Group 3)

10: Ocean Quest: A useful filly who has one win from three runs this year. That came in a listed race at Navan in April where she comfortably beat Aesop's Fables by 6 lengths. She was a decent 4th behind Shaquille in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot last time and that performance makes her the pick here.

26/8/23 Killarney & The Curragh

 Friday's best came at Killarney where Mighty Tom was 2nd, the 5/2 shot was at the rear early making headway from 2 out. He stayed on in 2nd before the last but made no impression on the run-in allowing Shecouldbeanything to pull away and win by 6 lengths. Over at Kilbeggan Mica Malpic finished 3rd, the 9/2 joint favourite was always in touch disputing the lead at the last. He had no extra soon after while upfront Desertmore House beat My Design by 2 lengths. 

 A busy Saturday sees 8 races at both Killarney and The Curragh where the days 3 features take place.

5.10: Heider Family Stables Round Tower Stakes (Group 3)

6: Mountain Bear: A course and distance winner in June who was a good third behind Haatem in the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood when last seen 25 days ago. He ran a decent race there and this good-looking prospect can take this improving both his record and giving his trainer Aidan O’Brien a sixth win in this race. 

5.40: Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes (Group 3)

6: American Sonja: A useful filly who has been a course winner in her career. She was a very good second in the Grade 3 Saratoga Oaks on her last outing 22 days ago with only the favourite Elusive Princess in front. Her yard is in good form and she can return to winning ways here. 

6.10: Paddy Power Supporting Cancer Trials Ireland Irish Cambridgeshire. 

3: Coeur D'Or: Picked up his career best win in a handicap at Galway 25 days ago challenging in the final 100 yards leading on the line beating No More Porter by a head. Despite going up 5lb another bold show is likely and he can follow up. 

25/8/23 Killarney & Kilbeggan

 There were two winners on Thursday both at Killarney, in the 5.30 Salt Lake City tracked the leaders and was 4th at halfway. He moved into 3rd two out keeping on well inside the final furlong leading close to home beating Didn'thavemuchtodo by a head. The 7.10 saw Jesse Evans travel well always being prominent. The 5/2 favourite led from 2 out keeping on strongly in the final furlong to beat Grecian Slipper by 1 1/4 lengths. Over at Leopardstown Waltham was 5th in a race won by Harbour Wind who beat Young Ireland by 3 3/4 lengths. 

 Two more meetings take place on Friday with 8 races at Killarney and 7 at Kilbeggan with 2 highlights. 

Killarney 4.50: SP Or Better Guaranteed With Tote Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Mighty Tom: Picked up his latest win over course and distance in May asserting himself before the last and keeping on well to easily come home by 10 lengths. He was a creditable 6th in the Grade 3 Galway hurdle when last seen 22 days ago. Dropping down in grade here should see him return to winning ways. 

Kilbeggan 7.20: Follow Kilbeggan On Facebook Handicap Chase. 

3: Mica Malpic: A decent horse who picked up his career best win on this course 2 weeks ago. He led at the last going clear on the run-in and comfortably coming home by 7 lengths. He beat some good prospects that day and he goes back up in trip here putting him top of the shortlist in his follow up bid.

24/8/23 Killarney & Leopardstown

 The best result at Sligo on Wednesday came from Arctic Ambition who was 3rd, the 11/4 shot tracked the leaders moving into 2nd 4 out. He briefly disputed the lead from 2 out sitting 2nd approaching the straight. He made no impression in 3rd on the run-in and had no extra, upfront Moonovercloon beat Game And Glory by 6 1/2 lengths. The other pick Dinoland failed to finish, the 7/2 chance was up with the leaders 3 out but soon weakened being pulled up before the last. Old Chap won the race beating Lets Do This by a short head. 

 A double header on Thursday sees 8 races at Killarney and 7 at Leopardstown with 3 main events. 

Killarney 5.30: Irish Stallion Farms Irish EBF Vincent O'Brien Ruby Stakes.

6: Salt Lake City: A useful horse who ran better then the result suggests when 6th in the Group 2 Romanised Minstrel Stakes at Leopardstown in July. He was unsuited by the drop in trip there so going back up to just over a mile here is in his favour. His run at Galway last time can be overlooked and he can bounce back. 

Leopardstown 6.55: Aer Lingus College Football Classic Vinnie Roe Stakes.

5: Waltham: A promising individual who has 2 wins from 2 runs this year both on this course. His latest was by an impressive 6 lengths when last seen a month ago and with plenty more to come he can complete the hat-trick here. 

Killarney 7.10: GMIB Kingdom Gold Cup Handicap. 

5: Jesse Evans: Has one win this year and arrives after finishing a very good second behind Zarak The Brave in the Galway Hurdle 21 days ago. Has to be taken seriously as he looks to go one better and take this.

23/8/23 Sligo

 The only winner at Roscommon on Tuesday was Nemonte, the 5/6 favourite made all the running and despite being strongly pressed inside the final furlong she kept on well close to home beating My Mate Alfie by 1 1/2 lengths. The other pick Bad Desire was a non-runner in a race won by Beauty Thunder who beat Thor's Hammer by 1/2 a length. 

 The midweek meeting takes place at Sligo where on a seven race card two stand out. 

7.10: Francie 'Banger' Burns Handicap Hurdle. 

6: Arctic Ambition: A decent horse who picked up two wins from 6 runs last season including at Ballinrobe in May and was a creditable 3rd in a handicap chase at Kilbeggan when last seen 11 days ago. He goes off his lower hurdles mark here and tops the shortlist. 

7.40: Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle. 

3: Dinoland: Despite not having won in nine starts he ran the best race of his career when second at Perth 3 weeks ago. He led at the home turn going clear but was passed at the last keeping on at the same pace on the run-in. He goes back up in trip here and has an excellent chance to go one better. 

22/8/23 Roscommon

 After a day off Irish racing begins it's week with seven races at Roscommon on Tuesday night where there are two features. 

 5.45: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. 

3: Bad Desire: A promising horse who ran well on debut when second at Galway 17 days ago. He led until the final 100 yards losing to a decent prospect Navy Seal by 2 3/4 lengths. His stable is in good form and with improvement expected he can take this before moving on to bigger things. 

6.15: Irish EBF Auction Series Race.

2: Nemonte: A winner at The Curragh on debut in May who didn't get a clear run after being hampered when finishing 4th in the Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes at Leopardstown 26 days ago. She was running well until a furlong out and on that performance going slightly up in trip here may help. She should go well again and return to winning ways. 

20/8/23 Results

 The best on Sunday came at The Curragh where in the Royal Whip Stakes Unless was 2nd. The 15/8 favourite led early and despite being pressed at halfway she had a 1 1/2 length advantage 3 out. She was passed in the final 100 yards and had no extra close to home allowing Layfayette to win by 3/4 of a length. In the Irish St Leger Trial Okita Soushi was 3rd, the 9/2 shot led until a furlong out keeping on at one pace close to home while upfront Shamida beat Dawn Rising by 1/2 a length. Over at Tramore Inclusion was 3rd in a race won by Whacker Clan who beat Lake Chad by 1/2 a length. 

 After a full weekend of action Irish racing takes a break on Monday, there are meetings at Brighton, Catterick, Bangor-On-Dee and Lingfield.  The next Irish card is at Roscommon on Tuesday tips for the features will be up on Monday night. 

 

20/8/23 Tramore & The Curragh

 Saturday's only winner was at The Curragh where Henry Longfellow sat 2nd at halfway leading from 2 out. The 2/9 favourite asserted himself soon after keeping on well to beat Islandsinthestream by 2 lengths, after his odds for next years 2000 Guineas at Newmarket were cut from 9/1 to 5/1. In the other Group 2 Pearls And Rubies was 5th in a race won by Vespertilio who beat Sakti by 1 3/4 lengths. The pick at Tramore didn't run after the meeting was called off due to unsafe track conditions after heavy overnight rain, the 8 race card has yet to be rearranged. 

 It the weeks 4th double header on Sunday with 8 races at both Tramore and The Curragh with 3 main events. 

Tramore 2.15: McCarthys Irish Bar Lexington Handicap Chase. 

4: Inclusion: Picked up her career best win at Tipperary 47 days ago leading entering the straight going clear and easily coming home by 13 lengths. With more to come on this her handicap chase debut she is hard to look past and can follow up.

The Curragh 4.05: Fitzdares Royal Whip Stakes (Group 3)

7: Unless: A useful filly who achieved the second win of her career in a listed race over course and distance a week ago. She led for a second time 2 out keeping on well to beat the favourite Azazat by 1 3/4 lengths. If she makes all the running again she will be tough to pass making her the pick. 

The Curragh 4.35: Comer Group International Irish St Leger Trial Stakes (Group 3)

3: Okita Soushi: A smart horse who has 3 wins from 4 runs this year his career best came in the Duke Of Edinburgh at Royal Ascot when last seen 58 days ago. Can definitely make his presence felt here as he looks to win for the 4th time.

19/8/23 The Curragh & Tramore

 The winner on Friday came at Tramore where Salvador Ziggy tracked the leaders making headway from 5 out. The 4/7 favourite led from 3 out going clear before the last keeping on well and comfortably beating The Banger Doyle by 12 lengths. At Cork Library was 2nd, the 10/3 shot led early but was passed 3 out. She disputed the lead again soon after but kept on at one pace in the final furlong allowing Term Of Endearment to pull away and win by 4 1/4 lengths. 

 A busy Saturday sees 8 races at both The Curragh and Tramore with 3 highlights. 

The Curragh 3.27: Coolmore Stud Wootton Bassett Irish EBF Futurity Stakes (Group 2)

2: Henry Longfellow: Impressed when winning on debut over course and distance a month ago. He led from 2 out keeping on well inside the final furlong and coming home by 1 3/4 lengths. His trainer Aidan O’Brien is having a good spell and this well-bred horse can give him a 16th victory in this race. 

The Curragh 4.00: Alpha Centauri Debutante Stakes (Group 2)

5: Pearls And Rubies: Made a winning debut at Navan in June and has run well in two runner-up efforts since. She was unsuited by the drop in trip on this course last time so going back up to 7f will suit and with improvement likely she is a big player who can return to winning ways. 

Tramore 4.45: Dan Cowman Memorial Maiden.

4: Eastmore: Matched his debut when 3rd at Killarney 33 days ago. He disputed the lead in the final furlong just being edged out on the line. A repeat of that performance may be enough to see him open his account here.

18/8/23 Tramore & Cork

 Thursday's winner came at Tramore where Royal Eagle was in touch sitting 3rd three out. She improved to lead soon after asserting herself before the last, she kept on well and the 2/1 favourite beat Tom McGreevy by 3 lengths. In the Group 3 at Leopardstown Villanova Queen was 7th in a race won by Lord Massusus who beat Alfred Munnings by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 Two more meetings take place on Friday with 7 races on a second day at Tramore and 8 at Cork with 2 standing out. 

Tramore 4.25: EY Chase. 

4: Salvador Ziggy: A promising horse who put in his best performance of the year when winning on fences debut at Punchestown 68 days ago. He led for a second time 3 out and was soon clear staying on well and comfortably coming home by 5 1/2 lengths. He looks set for bigger things in this sphere and is the one to beat here. 

Cork 5.52: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Give Thanks Stakes (Group 3)

8: Library: A smart filly who's latest win came at Naas in June and she was then an excellent third behind stablemate Savethelastdance in the Irish Oaks at The Curragh when last seen 27 days ago. She goes down in class and is hard to look past here. 

17/8/23 Leopardstown & Tramore

 It was another poor day on Wednesday where the best at Gowran Park came from State's Evidence who was 6th. The 4/1 shot tracked the leaders and sat 5th at halfway. He made no impression from a furlong out keeping on at one pace, Asian Daze took the contest beating School Of Law by 2 3/4 lengths. In the 5.10 Lust was a non-runner in a race won by Spanish Tenor who beat Facethepuckout by 3/4 of a length. 

 A Thursday double header sees 8 races at Leopardstown and 7 at Tramore with 2 features. 

Leopardstown 6.05: Bahrain Turf Club Desmond Stakes (Group 3)

5: Villanova Queen: A useful filly who has 2 wins from 4 runs this year her last was a career best at Royal Ascot 57 days ago. She made headway entering the final furlong leading towards the finish and coming home by 1/2 a length. She has also been a course and distance winner and has the ability to follow up here.

Tramore 6.49: Tramore Directors Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Royal Eagle: A decent horse who continued her good year with a creditable 3rd at the Galway festival earlier this month. She ran an excellent race there and can get back to winning ways here in this less-compeditive contest. 

16/8/23 Gowran Park

 The best on a poor Tuesday at Dundalk came from Golden Twilight who was 4th, the 5/1 joint favourite was at the rear sitting 12th at halfway. He challenged from 2 out making progress and going 4th inside the final furlong. He made no impression close to home while upfront Longbourn beat Ceallach by a short head. The days other pick Tai Sing Yeh was 9th in a race won by Hispanic who beat Dandyville by a nose.

 Wednesday's action is at Gowran Park where on an 8 race card 2 top the bill.

4.35: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

3: State's Evidence: A promising horse who after finishing 3rd on debut was a good 4th at Bellewstown when last seen 40 days ago. The first and second there Warnie and Captain Maverick have both won since and with further progress expected this well-bred colt can open his account here.

5.10: Open Week At Gowran Park Handicap. 

1: Lust: A course and distance winner in his career who tasted victory at listed level at Naas last year. He finished 7th on reappearance at Fairyhouse 35 days ago but he can put that behind him and he should be sharper for that run. If he returns to the form he showed in 2022 then there is no reason why he can't resume winning ways here.

15/8/23 Dundalk

 At Ballinrobe on Monday Sea Music won, the 11/10 favourite led early but was passed after a slight mistake at the 2nd. He led again approaching the last going clear on the run-in comfortably beating Our Girl Sal by 12 lengths. The other pick The Abbey was 8th in a race won by A Great View who beat Mister Beeton by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 Dundalk stages 8 races on Tuesday where there are two highlights. 

2.10: Bar One Racing Wishing Kevin O'Hare A Happy Retirement Mourne Handicap. 

8: Tai Sing Yeh: A 4-time course and distance winner who arrives here after putting in a career best performance to claim victory at Naas 20 days ago. He led narrowly from 2 out and despite being strongly pressed he held on to win by a head. He looks competitive on form and has the ability to follow up here on his favourite track.

4.40: Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Red God' Handicap. 

2: Golden Twilight: Has won on his last 4 visits to this course the latest being back in October. He was a creditable 3rd behind Safecracker at The Curragh on his most recent outing 44 days ago and with his yard in good form he can take this race again and defend the crown he won 12 months ago. 

14/8/23 Ballinrobe

 The winner on Sunday came at Downpatrick where An Mhi made all the running and despite being challenged 2 out he quickened to go 3 lengths clear entering the straight. The 4/7 favourite kept on well in the final 150 yards beating Annexation by 2 3/4 lengths. Over at The Curragh Azazat was 2nd, the 5/4 favourite was 4th at halfway improving into 3rd two out. She went 2nd in the last 100 yards but couldn't reach the winner Unless who came home by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 Another Irish racing week begins with 7 races at Ballinrobe on Monday night where there are 2 main events. 

7.20: Burleigh Accountancy Handicap Hurdle. 

9: The Abbey: A horse with a good recent record picking up his latest win at Limerick in May leading entering the straight drawing clear and easily coming home by 6 1/2 lengths. He was a respectable 9th in a handicap chase at Uttoxeter on his last outing 43 days ago and is the pick here on his hurdles return. 

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

9: Sea Music: Ran well when 3rd in a bumper at Galway on debut 11 days ago. He led at halfway but was passed in the straight dropping to 3rd inside the final furlong. He goes up in trip here which should suit and he can make his first hurdles start a winning one.

13/8/23 Downpatrick & The Curragh

 Saturday's winner at The Curragh was Bucanero Fuerte, the 9/4 shot was prominent leading from 2 out. He had a 2 length lead entering the final furlong keeping on well and going further clear in the final 100 yards easily beating Porta Fortuna by 4 lengths. In the days Group 3 Commanche Falls was 4th in a race won by Moss Tucker who beat Go Athletico by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 A busy Sunday sees seven races at both Downpatrick and The Curragh with two standing out. 

Downpatrick 2.40: Killultagh Estates Rated Hurdle. 

2: An Mhi: A useful hurdler who completed a hat-trick winning by an easy 17 lengths at Uttoxeter 42 days ago. He made all the running drawing clear from 2 out never being troubled. He holds the edge on form here and can achieve his 4-timer. 

The Curragh 3.50: Michael John Kennedy Memorial Irish EBF Stakes.

8: Azazat: A lightly-raced horse who was 7th behind Savethelastdance in the Irish Oaks on this course when last seen 22 days ago. This is an easier race and with her yard in good form she should go well here and get back on track. 

12/8/23 The Curragh & Kilbeggan

 In Friday's big race at Tipperary Deepone was 2nd, the 4/5 favourite was 4th at halfway moving into 2nd a furlong out. He kept on at the same pace inside the final furlong making no impression on the winner Warnie who came home by 3/4 of a length. Over at Wexford Percy Warner finished 3rd, the 5/6 favourite was in touch sitting 5th after the 6th. He improved to be 3rd 4 out but had no extra before the last while upfront Riaan comfortably beat Rexem by 7 lengths. 

 There are two more meetings on Saturday with 8 races at Kilbeggan and at The Curragh where the days two highlights take place. 

3.25: Rathasker Stud Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Group 3)

1: Commanche Falls: A smart horse who has 2 wins from 6 runs this year his latest was in the Hackwood Stakes at Newbury 3 weeks ago. He didn't need to be at his best there challenging inside the final furlong and leading towards the finish beating Diligent Harry by a head. Despite a penalty he should continue his excellent season and complete the hat-trick here. 

4.40: Keenland Phoenix Stakes (Group 1)

1: Bucanero Fuerte: A promising individual who picked up his second win of the year when taking the GAIN Railway Stakes over course and distance 41 days ago. He beat the reopposing Unquestionable by a short head and with more progress expected he should have the edge again and follow up. 

11/8/23 Wexford & Tipperary

 The best performance at Sligo on Thursday came from Timourid who was 3rd, the 4/1 shot chased the leaders early sitting 3rd at halfway. He challenged soon after but a slight mistake 2 out ended any hopes. He kept on at one pace in the final 150 yards allowing Hazelhatch Lady to pull away and beat Presenting Doyen by 3 1/4 lengths. In the 7.35 The Four Sixes was 7th in a race won by Emily In Paris who beat Junior Rattler by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 A Friday double header sees seven races at both Wexford and Tipperary with two features. 

Wexford 6.40: O'Driscoll's Irish Whisky Beginners Chase. 

5: Percy Warner: A useful chaser who was a bit below form when finishing 6th on his last outing at Navan back in March. His stamina was tested that day by the longer trip so going back down to 2m 3f here will suit. With better ground also expected he should take all the beating and open his chase account. 

Tipperary 7.00: Coolmore Stud Churchill Stakes.

4: Deepone: Has looked a good prospect so far winning both his starts, by 2 1/2 lengths on debut at Leopardstown and following up at Killarney last month. Further improvement is on the cards and despite going up in grade he can complete the hat-trick here. 

10/8/23 Sligo

 At Sligo on Wednesday Cardinal Zin was 2nd, the 10/3 favourite tracked the leaders making headway into 4th entering the straight. He kept on to go 2nd in the final 100 yards just failing to reach the winner Si Senior who came home by 1/2 a length. In the other contest Perfect Portrait was 4th, she was in midfield early sitting 5th at halfway. The 5/2 favourite dropped to 7th entering the straight but railed from a furlong out to go 4th close to home. The race was won by Starry Heavens who beat No Niki No by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There is a second day at Sligo on Thursday with seven races and two main events. 

6.05: Kilcawley Construction Rated Novice Hurdle. 

2: Timourid: A useful winner on the flat who impressed on his second start in this sphere when successful at Roscommon a month ago. He led from 2 out asserting himself on the run-in and comfortably coming home by 3 1/4 lengths. This is a stronger race but with more to come he can follow up.

7.35: Lighthouse At Clifford Electrical Handicap Hurdle. 

2: The Four Sixes: Won when fresh at Clonmel last season disputing the lead from 2 out moving to the front soon after and going clear at the last winning by 1 1/2 lengths. He was pulled up 3 out at Fairyhouse in December but that can be overlooked and he can return to winning ways here on handicap debut. 

9/8/23 Sligo

 The best at Roscommon on Tuesday came from Gentleman Joe who was 2nd, the 7/4 shot was prominent early making headway from 3 out. He briefly disputed the lead soon after but had no extra after jumping slightly to the right at the last allowing Gracchus De Balme to pull away and win by 5 1/2 lengths. The other pick Ballyglass Beauty was 7th in a race won by Hand Over Fist who beat Fill The Tank by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 Sligo stages the midweek meeting where on a seven race card two stand out. 

6.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Connacht Oaks Fillies Handicap. 

2: Perfect Portrait: Opened her account at Gowran Park in May beating Letiza by a length and then ran in listed company at Naas 42 days ago not being disgraced when coming home 6th. Her yard is in excellent form and she can improve to take this on her handicap debut. 

6.40: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

4: Cardinal Zin: Caught the eye when finishing 7th at Leopardstown on debut 3 weeks ago. He showed there was something to work with when running on well inside the final furlong despite not being ideally placed. He is open to further improvement and looks like the one to beat as he aims to pick up his first career win.

8/8/23 Roscommon

 An excellent Monday saw both my picks win, at Cork Suprise Package recovered from a poor start to sit 2nd 4 out. The 2/1 shot led narrowly from 2 out going clear on the run-in beating Cash Back by 4 lengths. Over at Naas Vauban tracked the leaders sitting 3rd after 2 furlongs. He made headway entering the straight with the 4/6 favourite leading from 2 out. He had a decent lead in the closing stages and he kept on well to beat Valiant King by 1 1/2 lengths, the win booked his place in the Melbourne Cup at Flemington on November 7th.

 There are seven races at Roscommon on Tuesday with two highlights. 

6.30: Paul Byron Shoes Handicap Hurdle. 

4: Ballyglass Beauty: Picked up his latest win at Sligo in June leading at the last and coming home by 2 lengths. He followed that up with a creditable 3rd on the same course when last seen 30 days ago travelling well and keeping on close to home. He has a good chance going on form and can resume winning ways here. 

7.00: J.F. Hanley Groundscare Beginners Chase.

2: Gentleman Joe: A useful horse on the flat who looked just as good when opening his hurdles account at Clonmel in May. He challenged approaching the straight moving into the lead at the last pulling away to win by 2 1/4 lengths. Despite being off since he is the pick here on this his chase debut. 

7/8/23 Cork & Naas

 The best on yet another poor day at Galway came from Hubrisko who was 9th, the 5/2 favourite made a couple of mistakes his last 2 out. He weakened soon after making no impression, upfront Fighting Fit beat Barnacullia by 1/2 a length. In the 4.00 Hotrocket was 14th in a race won by Dunum who beat Snapraeterea by 2 lengths. 

 A Monday double header kicks off the week with seven races at both Cork and Naas where there are two features. 

Cork 4.18: E.Tarrant & Sons, Banteer Hurdle. 

6: Suprise Package: A useful hurdler who was a very good second at Ballinrobe on his last outing 2 weeks ago. He was 4th at halfway improving into 2nd 1 1/2 furlongs out but despite keeping on well he couldn’t reach the winner going down by 1/2 a length. He switches from the flat back to hurdles here and can resume winning ways. 

Naas 4.35: Ballyroan Stakes (Group 3)

4: Vauban: A high-class hurdler who impressed on the flat at Royal Ascot 48 days ago winning the Copper Horse Handicap by 7 1/2 lengths. That one-sided contest showed he is very talented making him the one to beat here on his follow up bid.

6/8/23 Galway

 Saturday's winner was Portland, the 15/8 shot was at the rear improving approaching the straight. He made headway to lead inside the final 100 yards keeping on to beat Jakajaro by a length. The other pick Thecompanysergeant failed to finish, the 15/2 chance was 2nd at halfway disputing the lead 3 out. He dropped a place soon after having no extra and he was pulled up before the last. The race went to Ambitious Fellow who beat Bugs Moran by 3/4 of a length. 

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

3.30: Lord Hemphill Memorial Handicap Chase. 

6: Hubrisko: A promising horse who was second in a novice chase at Wexford when last seen 30 days ago. He led until the straight being passed at the last keeping on at the same pace. He is definitely capable of better and should be well up there on this his handicap chase debut. 

4.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF 'Ahonoora' Handicap. 

3: Hoteocket: Has 2 wins from 3 runs this year his latest was a career best at Fairyhouse 25 days ago. He ran well challenging from a furlong out and leading in the final 100 yards coming home by 3/4 of a length. Despite this being a stronger race and going up 5lb he has more to offer and can complete the hat-trick here. 

5/8/23 Galway

 The best on another poor day came from Fiveonefive who was 6th, the 14/1 shot was at the rear showing slight improvement 2 out. He was 9th at the last keeping on at one pace moving up 3 places, upfront Ifiwerearichman beat Volantis by 1/2 a length. In the big race Weston was 17th in a contest won by Brazil who defeated Teed Up by a head.

 It's the penultimate day at Galway on Saturday where out of 8 races 2 stand out. 

2.30: Boylesports Handicap Hurdle. 

13: Thecompanysergeant: Has shown promise since switching to hurdles winning at Navan in March and then being runner-up behind Nick Rockett in a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse when last seen back in April. Despite being well beaten that day he makes his handicap hurdle debut here and with plenty more to come he can go one better and double his tally in this sphere. 

4.15: GRA Chocolates Irish EBF Nursery Handicap. 

1: Portland: Made an eye-catching debut when 3rd at The Curragh in June but couldn't improve on that coming home 4th at Tipperary 31 days ago. He led until a furlong out dropping to 4th after bumping the rail 150 yards from the finish. Despite that he is open to further improvement and can win this on his first handicap start.

4/8/23 Galway

 The one winner on Thursday was Zarak The Brave, the 9/2 shot travelled strongly and was prominent challenging from 2 out. He led before the last and despite coming under pressure he rallied on the run-in just holding on to beat Jesse Evans by a head. In the other race Dandy Alys was 3rd, the 3/1 chance was 4th at halfway dropping to 5th entering the straight. She made headway from a furlong out keeping on and going 3rd close to home. Upfront Miramis beat Keep In Touch by a neck.

 Galway enters the fifth day of it’s summer festival on Friday with 8 more races and 2 highlights. 

5.00: Guinness Galway Tribes Handicap Hurdle. 

9: Fiveonefive: Has two wins from four runs this year his last was a career best performance at Clonmel 33 days ago. He made headway from 2 out staying on well in the closing stages leading in the final strides coming home by a head. He should continue his progression and despite stepping up in class he can win again here.

6.35: Guinness Handicap. 

5: Weston: A new recruit for Gordon Elliott who caught the eye when finishing fifth at Royal Ascot 45 days ago on his second start for the yard. He goes significantly back down in trip here but with plenty more to come he can build on that performance and take this.

3/8/23 Galway

 The best performance on Wednesday came from Royal Eagle who finished 3rd, the 13/2 shot was always prominent challenging from 2 out. She disputed 3rd from the last but despite keeping on well she couldn’t reach the winner A Law Of Her Own who beat Aurora Princess by a head. In the Galway Plate Kilcruit was 16th, the race was won by Ash Tree Meadow who beat Authorized Art by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 It's day 4 at Galway on Thursday where on an 8 race card 2 top the bill.

3.55: Arthur Guinness Irish EBF Corrib Fillies Stakes. 

6: Dandy Alys: A useful filly who was a good second behind Vetiver in a listed race at Carlisle when last seen 36 days ago. She ran well taking the lead inside the final furlong, she was passed close to home only going down by 1/2 a length. Her stable is in good form and the British raider can take this.

5.05: Guinness Galway Hurdle Handicap (Grade 3)

6: Zarak The Brave: A decent horse in France who has improved further since joining Willie Mullins. He was runner-up in Grade 1 company at Punchestown back in April before finishing 3rd behind Gala Marceau at Auteuil last time. This will be his first run in a big field but he has enough talent to win here.

2/8/23 Galway

 A poor day at Galway saw both my picks finish 6th, in the 5.10 Absurde made mistakes the last 3 out and he had no extra in the closing stages. Upfront Arctic Fly beat Sherodan by 4 1/2 lengths. It didn't go any better in the 6.40 where Blues Emperor found himself short of room a furlong out and made no impression in the final 110 yards. Coeur D'or won beating No More Porter by a head. 

 There are seven races at Galway on Wednesday which make up day 3 of the summer festival with two main events. 

6.40: Tote Galway Plate (Grade 3)

2: Kilcruit: A decent horse who produced an excellent performance to win by 15 lengths on handicap debut at the Punchestown festival in April. His hurdles return in a Group 1 at Auteuil can be overlooked and he is the pick here as he aims to achieve his 7th career victory. 

7.15: Bet 10 Get 30 Free At tote.ie Irish EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

8: Royal Eagle: A course and distance winner who was a good second behind the reopposing Cottie at Downpatrick when last seen 45 days ago. She was always prominent taking 2nd two out but couldn't reach the winner. She goes off the same mark here so a strong run is expected and she can go one better.