1/10/23 Tipperary & Killarney

 Saturday saw both my picks finish 3rd, at Killarney The Euphrates was 4th early improving to sit 3rd at halfway. The 2/1 shot challenged from 2 out but had no extra soon after keeping on at one pace, upfront Naval Force beat Chantilly by 3 1/4 lengths. In the race at Gowran Park Envoi Allen tracked the leaders sitting 3rd at halfway. The 13/8 favourite made a slight mistake at the 7th and despite recovering he had no extra on the run-in, Easy Game won beating Gentlemansgame by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 October begins on Sunday with 8 races at Tipperary and 7 at Killarney with 3 taking centre stage. 

Tipperary 2.40: Coolmore Sioux Nation Concorde Stakes.

3: Dunum: A smart horse who has 2 wins from 6 runs this year his last coming at Galway in August. He led entering the straight going clear in the final furlong and comfortably winning by 2 lengths. He was a good second in a Premier Handicap at Leopardstown last time and can go one better here. 

Killarney 3.00: Tote Guarantee Available On Course & Tote.ie Rated Novice Hurdle. 

1: Gortmillish: A horse in decent form who picked up a career best win at Downpatrick on his final outing 80 days ago. He led at the last keeping on well on the run-in to come home by 1 3/4 lengths. There is definitely more to come and he can continue his improvement by completing a hat-trick. 

Tipperary 3.50: Horse & Jockey Hotel Hurdle (Grade 3)

2: Zarak The Brave: A good hurdler who achieved his career best win in the Galway Hurdle 59 days ago. He kept on well to lead for a second time in the final 50 yards beating Jesse Evans by a head. He stands out here and is hard to look past. 

30/9/23 Killarney & Gowran Park

 An excellent Friday saw all 3 of my picks win, at Gowran Park Magical Zoe made headway from 4 out improving to lead two from the finish. The 8/11 favourite asserted herself soon after and despite a mistake at the last she kept on well beating Say Goodbye by 4 1/4 lengths. In the later race Aurora Vega was always in touch challenging entering the straight. The 8/13 favourite led from 2 out staying on to beat Sharp Object by 3 lengths. Over at Dundalk Piz Badile ran well leading for a second time close to home, the 2/1 favourite beat Sea The Casper by a neck.

 There are seven races at both Killarney and Gowran Park on Saturday with two standing out. 

Killarney 1.55: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. 

4: The Euphrates: A decent newcomer who is a brother to Modus Operandi and Spectacular Style both of whom have useful records. He is the best of the two Aidan O’Brien runners and on paper should make a winning start.

Gowran Park 4.35: PWC Champion Chase (Grade 2)

1: Envoi Allen: A high-class chaser who was 4th behind Fastorslow in the Grade 1 Punchestown Gold Cup when last seen back in April. He was unsuited by the step up in trip so dropping to 2m 4f here should suit. Despite being off 157 days he has an excellent record fresh and on form he can pick up his second win of the year.

29/9/23 Gowran Park & Dundalk

 Thursday's winner came at Bellewstown where Star Harbour tracked the leaders sitting 3rd at halfway. The 9/4 shot made no impression from a furlong out but he kept on well in the final 150 yards leading close to home beating Roaring Gallagher by a neck. Over at Clonmel Iridescent was 4th in a race won by The Short Go who beat Bella Bliss by 2 lengths. 

 The weeks 4th double header takes place on Friday with seven races at Gowran Park and eight at Dundalk with three main events. 

Gowran Park 3.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Pat Walsh Memorial Mares Hurdle. 

1: Magical Zoe: A lightly-raced horse who picked up her last win at Down Royal in November last year. She was then 2nd in a Grade 2 at the Cheltenham Festival with her final outing being a fifth at Fairyhouse in April. She goes back down in trip on her return and with improvement expected she can take this.

Gowran Park 5.35: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mucklemeg Mares Flat Race.

2: Aurora Vega: Made it 2 from 2 at Killarney 34 days ago leading from halfway travelling well and going clear from a furlong out easily coming home by 10 lengths. That performance makes this highly promising horse the pick and she can complete the hat-trick. 

Dundalk 6.45: Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Diamond Stakes.

4: Piz Badile: A smart horse who was a good 3rd behind Luxembourg in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at The Curragh when last seen in May. He is the class act in this field and if close to his best on his all-weather debut he will be difficult to beat.

28/9/23 Clonmel & Bellewstown

 Wednesday's winner came at Bellewstown where Keke was 4th approaching halfway challenging from a furlong out. He led in the final 100 yards keeping on well to beat Rathbranchurch by 3/4 of a length. At Sligo Natural Look finished 2nd, the 4/1 shot was towards the rear making progress to sit 3rd at halfway. She moved into 2nd 3 out but soon had no extra keeping on at one pace allowing Hope Des Blins to pull away and win by 6 lengths. 

 Thursday sees another two meetings with seven races at both Clonmel and Bellewstown with two features. 

Clonmel 4.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Captain Christy Rated Novice Chase. 

2: Iridescent: A useful chaser who has 3 wins from 5 runs this season his latest was at Wexford in August, he led for a second time in the closing stages keeping on well to win by 1/2 a length. He was a good second at Galway when last seen 17 days ago and with more improvement over fences expected here he can go one better. 

Bellewstown 4.35: Kilsaran Race.

1: Star Harbour: A decent horse who ran well in some competitive Racing League events winning at Chepstow and finishing with a creditable 4th at Southwell 2 weeks ago. This looks like a good opportunity for him to pick up his 10th career victory and he is the one to beat. 

27/9/23 Sligo & Bellewstown

 On a poor Tuesday at Cork the best came from Power Under Me who was 12th in a race won by Foniska the 12/1 shot beat Snapraeterea by 3 lengths. In the other race Kendall Roy was a non-runner with Ocean Baroque taking the contest beating Bid For Chester by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 A midweek double header sees seven races at both Sligo and Bellewstown with two highlights. 

Sligo 2.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Beginners Chase. 

4: Natural Look: A useful chaser who's last win came in a handicap hurdle at Cork in July leading before the last running on well and easily coming home by 3 lengths. She was unlucky not to win at Kilbeggan 19 days ago travelling well in the lead when falling at the last, is definitely worth a chance to make amends here.

Bellewstown 3.10: Grimes Maiden. 

3: Keke: A lightly-raced horse who was a good second at Down Royal when last seen just over 2 weeks ago. He made headway from 2 out keeping on well to take second close to home finishing a short head in front of his reopposing stablemate Cross Border. Definitely has what it takes to confirm that here and pick up his first career win. 

26/9/23 Cork

 The winner on Monday came at Roscommon where Hercule Du Seuil made all the running jumping well. The 2/5 favourite went clear 3 out increasing his advantage on the run-in easily beating Calico by 12 lengths. At Down Royal Tachos was 5th in a race won by Sluice who beat Cornahilt Soldier by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 The week continues with eight races at Cork on Tuesday where two stand out. 

1.55: Irish EBF Auction Series Nursery Handicap. 

8: Kendall Roy: Left all previous outings well behind when winning on nursery debut at Naas 12 days ago. He was 4th at halfway improving to lead 150 yards from the finish keeping on well to come home by 1/2 a length. An 8lb rise shouldn’t be a problem and he can follow up here.

4.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Navigation Stakes.

1: Power Under Me: A smart horse who has been a course winner in his career. He was a very creditable 4th behind Zarinsk in the Group 2 Minstrel Stakes at Leopardstown when last seen 61 days ago running better than the result suggests. The return to 1m here will suit and he can get back to winning ways. 

25/9/23 Down Royal & Roscommon

 The best on a busy Sunday at The Curragh came from Sakti who was 2nd, the 9/4 favourite travelled well taking a narrow lead a furlong out. She was strongly pressed and passed entering the closing stages by Caught U Looking who won by 1/2 a length. In the other Group 3 Ocean Quest was 4th with the race going to Go Athletico who beat Big Gossey by 1/2 a length while in the Irish Cesarewitch Teed Up was 18th, the 150/1 outsider Magellan Strait won beating Falcon Eight by 1/2 a length. 

 A Monday double header sees seven races at both Down Royal and Roscommon with two main events. 

Down Royal 3.00: Irish EBF Auction Series Fillies Maiden. 

1: Tachos: A lightly-raced horse who improved on her debut when 4th at Gowran Park 40 days ago. She was always tracking the leaders but kept on at the same pace inside the final furlong. Her yard is in good form and with more to come she is a big player who can take this.

Roscommon 4.30: Ballymore Group Irish EBF Kilbegnet Novice Chase (Grade 3)

1: Hercule Du Seuil: A horse with an excellent recent record who completed a hat-trick over fences at Galway 53 days ago beating the reopposing Solness by 6 1/2 lengths. He travelled strongly making all the running asserting himself after the last. With more improvement expected he should get the 4-timer here.

24/9/23 The Curragh

 The best on Saturday came in the Goffs Million where Cherry Blossom finished 2nd, the 1/1 favourite tracked the leaders early sitting 5th at halfway. She improved to briefly lead a furlong out but was soon passed making no further impression, One Look easily won by 6 lengths. The days other two picks Stromberg and Mica Malpic both came fifth. 

 There are 8 more races at The Curragh on Sunday with 3 taking centre stage. 

2.25: Weld Park Stakes (Group 3)

6: Sakti: A promising horse who has been second on both her starts including behind Vespertilio in the Debutante Stakes over course and distance when last seen 36 days ago. She was clear of the rest and with plenty more to come she looks like the one to beat here.

3.00: Westgrove Hotel Renaissance Stakes (Group 3)

6: Ocean Quest: A smart filly who has been a course winner, she took her form to a new level when picking up a career best victory in the Ballyogan Stakes at Naas last time comfortably beating Aussie Girl by 3 3/4 lengths. Even more improvement is expected here and this likeable horse definitely has the ability to follow up.

4.10: Friends Of The Curragh Irish Cesarewitch. 

11: Teed Up: Continued his good year when winning at Galway 49 days ago, he led at the last going clear and coming home by 3 1/2 lengths. He should carry on his progression here back on the flat and is the pick in a competitive renewal of this race. 

23/9/23 The Curragh & Listowel

 Friday's winner came at Dundalk where Alabama tracked the leaders improving to lead 1 1/2 furlongs out. Despite being strongly pressed he kept on well under pressure in the closing stages beating Emerald Banner by 3/4 of a length. Over at Listowel Filey Bay was 10th in a race won by Man O Work who beat Horantzau D'Airy by 1 1/2 lengths. 

 A busy weekend begins on Saturday with 8 races at both The Curragh and Listowel on the final day of the Harvest Festival and there are 3 features. 

The Curragh 2.30: Alan Smurift Memorial Beresford Stakes (Group 2)

6: Stromberg: Has looked a good prospect winning his last two outings including by an easy 7 lengths at Roscommon earlier this month. Should continue to make an impression here taking the step up to group level in his stride.

The Curragh 3.40: Goffs Million. 

17: Cherry Blossom: A winner over 6f on this course who followed up with a very good second behind Relief Rally in the Group 2 Lowther Stakes at York when last seen 30 days ago. She led for a second time entering the final furlong being passed close to home. She sets a high standard and can take Europe's most valuable juvenile race.

Listowel 4.30: Charlie Chute Memorial Handicap Chase. 

7: Mica Malpic: A course winner in his career who picked up his latest victory at Kilbeggan last month. He returned there to finish a good 3rd 29 days ago and he should continue his recent progression by taking this.

22/9/23 Listowel & Dundalk

 A poor Thursday at Listowel saw Harry The Rogue finish 5th, the 3/1 shot led early but was challenged from a furlong out being passed soon after dropping to 3rd. He had no extra weakening inside the final furlong, upfront Look At The Stars won easily beating Cardinal Zin by 5 1/2 lengths. In the days big race Jabbar was a non-runner with the contest going to Vera Verto who beat Vischio by 5 lengths. 

 A Friday double header sees 8 races at both Listowel on the penultimate day of there Harvest Festival and Dundalk with two highlights. 

Listowel 2.05: Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle. 

2: Filey Bay: A decent horse who ran well to be placed in both the Betfair and County hurdles at the beginning of this year. His latest win came on the flat at Tramore last month leading in closing stages and comfortably coming home by 3 lengths. His run at Tipperary last time can be overlooked and he can return to winning ways now back over hurdles. 

Dundalk 4.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race.

1: Alabama: Has been mixing in good circles recently with two runner-up finishes in listed company on his record. Was a good fourth at York 27 days ago and here on his all-weather debut he should be tough to beat. 

21/9/23 Listowel

 The best at Listowel on Wednesday came from Salvador Ziggy who was 2nd, the 11/2 favourite was at the rear making headway 4 out. He led just before 2 out but was passed at the last making no impression on the winner Desertmore House who came home by 3 3/4 lengths. In the earlier race Bialystok was 3rd with the contest going to The Wallpark who beat Broomfield Bijou by 3 lengths. 

 A fifth day at Listowel on Thursday sees eight more races with two main events. 

1.40: Buckley Agri New Holland Irish EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

5: Harry The Rogue: Has experience on his side and ran well when finishing 3rd at Bellewstown 76 days ago. The two in front of him there have won since with one scoring in listed company so another performance like that could see him open his account here on his 4th career start.

4.35: Listowel Printing Works Handicap. 

13: Jabbar: A horse who has progressed well this year winning his last two starts by 1/2 a length at Killarney and leading on the line to beat Longclaw by a neck at Roscommon earlier this month. Despite going up 6lb he is definitely on the right track and has an excellent opportunity to complete the hat-trick here. 

20/9/23 Listowel

 On Tuesday at Listowel Nor Time Nor Tide won, the 9/4 shot disputed the lead early hitting the front 2 out. He kept on strongly entering the closing stages beating Old Faithful by 2 1/2 lengths. In the other race Kingswood was 4th with the contest going to Maud Gonne Spirit who beat Miramis by a neck. 

 It's day 4 at Listowel on Wednesday where on a 7 race card 2 stand out. 

2.45: Seamus Mulvaney Bookmaker Novice Hurdle. 

1: Bialystok: A horse with a decent record who picked up his latest win at Punchestown in April leading at the last and staying on well to come home by 1 3/4 lengths. He was a good 7th in the Galway Hurdle when last seen 48 days ago and coming back to novice company here should make him hard to beat. 

4.25: Guinness Kerry National Handicap Chase (Grade 3)

3: Salvador Ziggy: A promising horse who has 3 wins from 5 runs this year completing the hat-trick when taking a 2-runner novice chase at Killarney 25 days ago. He led before 2 out easily beating the reopposing Toss Again by 13 lengths. He makes his handicap chase debut here and has every chance of achieving a 4-timer. 

19/9/23 Listowel

 The best performance on Monday came at Fairyhouse where Mansa Musa was 2nd, the 6/5 favourite led early travelling well from 2 out. He was passed a furlong from the finish making no impression on the winner Megarry who came home by 2 1/4 lengths. Over at Listowel Common Practice finished 3rd, the 9/1 shot made headway from 3 out moving into 3rd entering the straight. He had no extra on the run-in while upfront Samui beat Dark Note by a head. In the days big Group 3 Sounds Of Heaven was a non-runner in a race won by Maxux who beat American Sonja by 4 1/4 lengths. 

 The Listowel Harvest festival enters it's 3rd day on Tuesday with seven races and two highlights. 

3.50: Edmund & Josie Whelan Memorial Listowel Stakes. 

10: Kingswood: A smart horse who last won at Cork in April, he led 200 yards from the finish staying on well to come home by 1 1/4 lengths. He was a very good second in a Premier Handicap at The Curragh on his last outing just 9 days ago and is the one to beat here. 

4.25: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Rated Race. 

3: Nor Time Nor Tide: A promising horse who delivered a career best performance to win at Killarney 26 days ago. He ran well to lead from a furlong out keeping on in the closing stages to easily come home by 4 1/4 lengths. His stable is having a good spell and with more improvement expected he can follow up. 

18/9/23 Fairyhouse & Listowel

 Sunday's best at Listowel came from Space Tourist who was 2nd, the 30/100 favourite disputed the lead from 3 out moving to the front entering the straight. She was pressed before the last keeping on well on the run-in being passed on the line by Popova who won by a short head. In the two runner Kerry Group Chase Saint Sam failed to finish, the 2/5 favourite led early and despite being pressed he had a length advantage when he fell at the last leaving Visionarian to win the race.

 There is a double header on Monday with 8 races at Fairyhouse and 7 at Listowel on day 2 of the Harvest festival with 3 features. 

Fairyhouse 3.10: Denny Cordell Lavarack & Lanwades Stud Fillies Stakes (Group 3)

9: Sounds Of Heaven: A smart filly who began her year with a win in a listed race at York in May following up with an excellent 3rd in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot. She was 6th in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville last time but can bounce back here.

Listowel 3.20: Liam Healy Memorial Lartigue Hurdle. 

2: Common Practice: Last picked up a win at Galway in October last year and after finishing 2nd at Fairyhouse unseated his rider in a Grade B at Leopardstown when last seen in February. Despite being off 7 months and wearing cheekpieces for the first time he is worth another chance here. 

Fairyhouse 6.25: Ballyhane Blenheim Stakes. 

2: Mansa Musa: A lightly-raced horse who has one win from three runs, that came at Goodwood at the beginning of August with his last outing being a good second in the Round Tower Stakes at The Curragh 23 days ago. He sets a high standard and is the one to beat.

17/9/23 Listowel

 Saturday's winner at Navan was First Dare, the 3/1 joint favourite was in midfield making headway from 2 out. She led at the last staying on well under pressure to comfortably beat Hearts Are Trumps by 3 1/2 lengths. In the 2.10 Ryiri finished 3rd, the 11/4 shot tracked the leaders sitting 3rd for most of the way dropping to 4th two out. He regained 3rd before the last but had no extra, upfront Amir Kabir beat Set Point by 4 1/4 lengths. 

 Irish racing moves onto Listowel on Sunday where on a seven race card there are two main events.

2.35: Kerry Group Irish EBF Mares Hurdle. 

4: Space Tourist: A useful horse who has two wins from three runs this season her last was at Kilbeggan in June. She led at the 5th and pulled well clear from 2 out extending her advantage on the run-in coming home by a very easy 41 lengths. She lost her unbeaten record over hurdles when 8th at Galway 47 days ago but going up in trip here can see her bounce back. 

4.55: Kerry Group Chase.

2: Saint Sam: A very smart chaser who picked up his career best victory at Galway when last seen 42 days ago. He travelled strongly and was clear at halfway staying on to win by a comfortable 13 lengths. He is in excellent form and should complete a 4-timer here.

16/9/23 Navan

 The best on Friday came at Downpatrick where Ceanndana was 3rd, the 11/8 favourite recovered from a poor start to make progress from 4 out. She went into 3rd approaching two out keeping on but making no impression, upfront Finnians Row beat Jenny Flex by 2 lengths. Over at Ballinrobe Something Abouther was 5th in a race won by Ballybawn Belter who beat Shannon Glory by an easy 6 lengths. 

 After the meeting at Gowran Park was abandoned due to a waterlogged track there are just 8 races at Navan on Saturday with two highlights. 

2.10: Bar One Racing Guaranteed Overnight Prices Hurdle. 

3: Nyiri: A useful winner in France who ran well on his first start for Willie Mullins when 4th at Cork 40 days ago. He was 3rd before the last dropping to 4th close to home, that was his return after 4 months off and with further progress to come this is a good opportunity to open his Irish account. 

2.45: Bar One Racing Ladies Handicap Hurdle. 

10: First Dare: A decent horse who was a very good second on heavy ground at Tramore when last seen 29 days ago. She led from 5 out but was strongly pressed approaching the last being passed in the final 100 yards. A repeat of that performance should see her challenge here and go one better. 

15/9/23 Downpatrick & Ballinrobe

 An excellent Thursday at Naas saw both my picks win, in the 3.05 King Cuan tracked the leaders going 2nd two out. The 4/7 favourite found himself short of room soon after but kept on well to lead in the closing stages beating Jakajaro by a length. The later race saw Bright Stripes sit 4th at halfway making headway from two out. The 4/9 favourite led a furlong from the finish keeping on in the final 150 yards to beat Aratayvo by a length. 

 The third double header of the week takes place on Friday with seven races at Downpatrick and eight at Ballinrobe with two standing out. 

Downpatrick 4.35: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase. 

1: Ceanndarta: A fair hurdler who has two wins from three runs this season her last was a career best at Killarney 57 days ago. She led from 3 out and despite being pressed at the last she kept on well just holding on to win by 1/2 a length. She makes her chase debut here and can continue her progression by completing a hat-trick. 

Ballinrobe 4.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

5: Something Abouther: A promising horse who has picked up one win from three runs this season that came at Punchestown in June where she beat the reopposing Ginnets Girl by a comfortable 8 1/2 lengths. Her handicap debut at Galway 44 days ago can be overlooked and on form she has a decent chance to return to winning ways. 

14/9/23 Naas

 The best on a poor Wednesday came at Tramore where As Fast As Wind was 4th, the 9/2 shot travelled well leading after two furlongs. She was passed four out dropping to 4th and making no impression. Upfront Eziva beat Skyquake by 2 1/4 lengths. Over at Punchestown Everylittlestep was 9th in a race won by Star Galaxy who beat Angelic Appeal by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Naas stages seven races on Thursday where there are two features. 

3.05: Goffs Sportsman's Challenge. 

8: King Cuan: A promising horse who impressed when winning an auction race at Cork 8 days ago. He was 4th at halfway travelling well to lead 1 1/2 furlongs out, he went clear in the closing stages easily coming home by 4 1/4 lengths. As long as this hasn’t come too soon he should continue his progression here and follow up. 

4.50: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

8: Bright Stripes: A decent individual who stood out when 3rd on this course on debut 38 days ago. He made headway from 2 out keeping on well taking 3rd close to home. The step up in trip here is in his favour and looking at the rest of the field he should be hard to beat. 

13/9/23 Tramore & Punchestown

 Tuesday's best came at Galway where Echoes In Rain was 3rd, the 5/4 favourite was 7th at halfway making good progress from two out. She moved into 4th inside the final furlong keeping on well to take 3rd close to home, Thunder Roll won beating Enfranchise by 3/4 of a length. At Laytown Arniemac was 5th in a race won by Vega Magnifico who beat Indulging by 2 3/4 lengths. 

 Another two meetings take place on Wednesday with seven races at Tramore and eight at Punchestown with two main events. 

Tramore 1.55: Tramore Maiden. 

5: As Fast As Wind: A decent filly who was 6th on her first start for a new yard at Clonmel a week ago. She wasn't seen at her best there but with blinkers back on and returning to a longer trip both being a plus she is the pick here to open her account. 

Punchestown 4.05: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

9: Everylittlestep: A horse in excellent form who has 3 wins from 7 runs this year completing the hat-trick at Gowran Park in August. She was a creditable 2nd when favourite at The Curragh 3 weeks ago travelling well only losing the lead in the final 100 yards. She is the standout and can resume winning ways here. 

12/9/23 Galway & Laytown

 On Monday at Galway both my picks were 2nd, in the 4.30 Seddon led early and despite a couple of mistakes his advantage was 2 lengths approaching two out. The 5/4 favourite was passed at the last but kept on well on the run-in only losing to Winter Fog by a neck. In the later race Iridescent was 5th at halfway making headway to lead from 2 out. The 4/1 shot was 2 lengths clear entering the straight but was passed 150 yards from the finish making no impression and allowing Glenquin Castle to win by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 A Tuesday double header sees 8 races at Galway and 6 on the calendar's yearly visit to the beach at Laytown with two highlights. 

Galway 6.25: Ardilaun Hotel Irish EBF Oyster Stakes. 

2: Echoes In Rain: A useful mare who's last win came in a Grade 1 hurdle at Punchestown in April. She led approaching the last going clear on the run-in and easily coming home by 9 1/2 lengths. She was 8th behind Courage Mon Ami in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot when last seen 82 days ago but can get back to winning ways here dropping back down in class.

Laytown 7.15: Gilna's Cottage Inn (Q.R.) Race.

1: Arniemac: A promising horse who has one win from two runs this year that came at Killarney on his last outing in May. He led from 2 out eventually winning by 4 1/2 lengths. He was suited by the increase in trip that day but dropping to 7f here shouldn’t be a problem. He is open to further improvement and can follow up. 

11/9/23 Galway

 The best at The Curragh on Sunday came from Kyprios who was 2nd, the 4/6 favourite was 4th early improving to sit 3rd four out. He stayed on going into 2nd 1 1/2 furlongs from the finish but made no impression on the winner Eldar Eldarov who won by 3 1/2 lengths. In the other races Highfield Princess was 5th in a contest won by Moss Tucker who beat Get Ahead by 1/2 a length and City Of Troy was a non-runner. 

 After a busy weekend Monday sees eight races at Galway with two features. 

4.30: Deacy Gilligan Hurdle. 

6: Seddon: Was in excellent form for a new yard last season winning at the Cheltenham Festival and completing a 4-timer with a hurdles win at the Punchestown festival. Finished 4th on his return on the flat at Killarney last month but will be sharper for that and can return to winning ways here. 

6.45: Kenny Developments Handicap Chase. 

2: Iridescent: A promising horse who has 3 wins from 4 runs this season his latest was a career best when dropping down in trip at Wexford 31 days ago. He travelled well to lead from 3 out and despite being passed he got to the front again in the closing stages coming home by 1/2 a length. A 9lb penalty shouldn't be a problem and he can follow up.

10/9/23 The Curragh

 An excellent Saturday at Leopardstown saw both my picks win, in the Justify Matron Stakes Tahiyra was 5th at halfway making headway early in the straight. The 5/6 favourite challenged to lead 150 yards from the finish keeping on well to beat Rogue Millennium by 1 1/4 lengths. The Irish Champion Stakes saw Auguste Rodin track the leaders sitting 3rd at halfway. The 11/4 favourite made progress leading from a furlong out, he kept on well under pressure beating Luxembourg by 1/2 a length. 

 The Irish Champions Festival reaches it’s conclusion on Sunday with 8 races at The Curragh where three group one’s take centre stage. 

2.55: Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Flying Five Stakes (Group 1)

9: Highfield Princess: A high-class horse who won five times in 2022 including this race. She has looked just as good this year winning the King George at Goodwood by 3 lengths and being runner-up in the Nunthorpe when last seen. She definitely has the ability to add another big prize here.

4.00: Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes (Group 1)

2:City Of Troy: A course and distance winner on debut in July who blew his rivals away when taking the Group 2 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket. He came home by 6 1/2 lengths and with even better to come this impressive looking horse looks hard to beat here. 

4.35: Comer Group International Irish St Leger (Group 1)

3: Kyprios: Won four group one’s last season including this race and produced an outstanding run when a very easy 20 length winner of the Prix Gadran at Longchamp when last seen. Despite being off since due to injury he should still be hard to beat and he can win a fifth Group 1 in a row.

9/9/23 Leopardstown

 The best on a very poor Friday came at Down Royal where Grand City Hall was 5th, the 3/1 shot was in midfield sitting 6th at halfway. He made some headway but didn't get a clear run in 5th from a furlong out, he was eased down in the final 100 yards while upfront Ashwiyaa beat Back Down Under by 1 1/4 lengths. At Kilbeggan Pakens Rock finished 6th in a race won by Union Park who beat Rotten Row by a comfortable 7 lengths. 

 It's day one of the Irish Champions festival on Saturday with eight races at Leopardstown with two standing out. 

2.45: Coolmore America Justify Matron Stakes (Group 1)

12: Tahiyra: Lost her unbeaten record when second behind Mawj in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket on reappearance but quickly got back to winning ways when taking the Irish version beating the reopposing Meditate by 1 1/2 lengths. She added another group one with the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot last time and is the one to beat here.

3.20: Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes (Group 1)

7: Auguste Rodin: Left his poor run in the 2000 Guineas behind when winning the Derby at Epsom beating another in this field King Of Steel by 1/2 a length and then followed up by taking the Irish Derby in July. His last run in the King George can be overlooked and if back to anything like his Derby form he will be tough to beat here. 

8/9/23 Down Royal & Kilbeggan

 An excellent Thursday at Clonmel saw both my picks win, in the 4.20 Astar led early and despite being pressed a furlong out the 8/11 favourite kept on well in the closing stages to beat Stariam by 1 1/4 lengths. The later race saw Extensio track the leaders moving to the front 2 out. The 2/1 favourite went clear in the final furlong easily beating Sheishybrid by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 The weeks second double header takes place on Friday with seven races at Down Royal and eight at Kilbeggan with two main events. 

Down Royal 3.50: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

9: Grand City Hall: A promising horse who has finished 3rd on both his starts the latest was at The Curragh 19 days ago. He ran well disputing the lead at halfway but he dropped to 3rd under pressure 1 1/2 out keeping on at the same pace. There is definitely more to come and he can improve and open his account here. 

Kilbeggan 6.50: Kilsaran Handicap Chase. 

1: Pakens Rock: Had a good start to the season winning twice here the last over this races distance in July. Was well below form when 13th at Galway last time but that can be overlooked and on this campaigns form it would be no surprise to see him bounce back on a track he enjoys. 

7/9/23 Clonmel

 The best result on Wednesday came at Gowran Park where Starliner was 2nd, the 3/1 shot was 4th at halfway making progress from 2 out. He pressed the leader soon after taking 2nd inside the final furlong, Instant Appeal won the race by 1 1/4 lengths. Over at Cork Perfect Judgment finished 3rd, the 100/30 chance recovered from a poor start to lead early but he had no extra from a furlong out allowing The Caribbean to beat Queen Of Thunder by a head.

 Seven races take place at Clonmel on Thursday with two features. 

4.20: Clonmel Racecourse Supporters Club Fillies Maiden. 

4: Astar: A useful filly who despite being winless after 7 flat runs was a very good second at Galway when last seen 38 days ago. She improved to sit 2nd two out but had no extra in the final furlong. That was her third runner-up finish this year and going back down in trip could see her open her account. 

6.55: John O'brien Memorial Tipperary Cup Handicap. 

7: Extensio: Made an excellent hurdles debut at Roscommon a month ago leading entering the straight and going 2 lengths clear at the last, he kept on well coming home by 3 1/4 lengths. He has a decent record in this sphere and will be a big player again in his follow up attempt. 

6/9/23 Gowran Park & Cork

 After a day off Irish racing returns on Wednesday with seven races at both Gowran Park and Cork with two topping the bill. 

Gowran Park 2.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. 

7: Starliner: A promising horse who has finished 3rd on both his starts the latest coming at The Curragh 11 days ago. He was 6th at halfway running on well to take 3rd in the final 100 yards. He sets a good standard and with his trainer having a good spell he can take this. 

Cork 7.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Rated Race.

4: Perfect Judgement: A decent horse who built on his encouraging debut when 4th at The Curragh 17 days ago. He did his best work in the closing stages taking 4th in the final furlong. With more to come and his yard in good form he is a big player who can pick up his 1st career win.

4/9/23 Results

 On Monday at Roscommon Stromberg won, the 1/5 favourite was 4th early making headway to lead from 2 out. He was soon clear staying on strongly in the final furlong easily beating Barnso by 7 lengths. In the days other race Martinstown was 3rd, the 9/4 shot led but was passed 2 out. He dropped to 3rd making no impression while upfront Cristal Clere beat Fleetfoot by 1/2 a length. 

 After today's action Irish racing takes a break on Tuesday, there are meetings at Goodwood, Bangor-On-Dee, Ripon and Hamilton. The next Irish cards are at Gowran Park and Cork on Wednesday the tips will be up on Tuesday night. 

4/9/23 Roscommon

 Sunday's best at Tipperary came from Dun Na Sead who was 3rd, the 9/4 shot led but was strongly pressed inside the final furlong. She was passed 100 yards from the finish having no extra and dropping to 3rd close to home, Twilight Jet took the contest beating Lokada by a neck. In the days Group 3 Honey Girl was 5th in a race won by Clever And Cool who beat Matilda Picotte by 1/2 a length. 

 Roscommon stages 8 races on Monday where there are 2 highlights. 

3.27: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race. 

2: Stromberg: Confirmed the promise shown on his debut run when winning at Galway 29 days ago. He led from a furlong out staying on well and going clear in the closing stages easily coming home by 10 lengths. There is definitely more to come and he has the ability to follow up here. 

5.45: Lecarrow Race.

2: Martinstown: Looked an excellent prospect when making a winning debut at Cork in May last year beating Point Gellibrand by 1/2 a length. He was unsuited by the heavy ground when 8th behind Visualisation in a listed race at Naas on his return in March but that can be overlooked with better conditions expected here. Despite being off 162 days he is in good hands and can get back to winning ways. 

3/9/23 Tipperary

 At Navan on Saturday Megarry was 2nd, the 7/4 favourite tracked the leaders sitting 3rd approaching halfway. He challenged keeping on well inside the final furlong just failing to reach the winner Lia Fail who came home by a short head. In the 1.40 Ciao For Now was 5th in a race won by Kiki Roberts who beat Go Girl Go by a head. 

 The weekend reaches it's conclusion with seven races at Tipperary on Sunday where there are two main events. 

3.45: Coolmore Stud No Nay Never Fairy Bridge Stakes (Group 3)

1: Honey Girl: A smart filly who was a good second behind Zarinsk in the Minstrel Stakes at Leopardstown when last seen 38 days ago. Despite not getting a clear run from a furlong out she kept on well taking 2nd on the line. Her trainer is having a good spell and on form she can pick up her 3rd win of the year here.

4.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Abergwaun Stakes.

2: Dun Na Sead: A useful horse who has 3 wins already this year her latest was at Dundalk in July. She was a very good 3rd in a handicap at The Curragh 22 days ago only losing the lead inside the final furlong dropping to 3rd in the final 50 yards. She can build on that here and achieve win number 4.

2/9/23 Navan

 The best performance on Friday came at Down Royal where Whiskey Sour was 2nd, the 15/8 favourite made headway from 3 out moving into 2nd soon after. He challenged at the last but made no impression on the run-in keeping on at one pace allowing Tullybeg to win by 2 1/4 lengths. Over at Wexford Lucky Zebo finished 3rd, the 5/2 favourite was 4th at halfway going into 3rd entering the straight. He was disputing the lead when hampered a furlong out and had no extra in the final 100 yards. Joyeux Machin won beating Effernock Fizz by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There are 8 races at Navan on Saturday with 2 taking centre stage. 

1.40: Irish EBF Auction Series Fillies Maiden. 

4: Ciao For Now: A promising horse who was a good second on debut at Leopardstown just 9 days ago. She was 3rd at halfway travelling well to grab 2nd in the final 100 yards but she wasn’t able to reach the winner. She will have learnt a lot from that run and with her yard in good form she can go one better here.

2.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Rated Race.

4: Megarry: A horse with good recent form who put in a career best run when winning at The Curragh 2 weeks ago. He led from 2 1/2 furlongs out keeping on in the closing stages to come home by 1 1/2 lengths. That performance makes him the one to beat here and he can follow up.