1/9/24 Tipperary

 Saturday's only winner at The Curragh was Dreamy. The 6/5 favourite was 3rd early improving to lead narrowly from a furlong out, she extended her advantage in the closing stages beating Fiery Lucy by 1 1/2 lengths. In the other Group 3 Hanalia was 2nd. The 5/2 shot recovered from a poor start making progress from 2 out. She was 3rd inside the final furlong taking 2nd in the last strides, Tarawa won by 1 1/4 lengths. The Irish Cambridgeshire saw Blues Emperor finish 18th with Wigmore Street winning beating State Actor by a head.

 September begins with 8 races at Tipperary on Sunday where there are 2 features. 

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

7: Super Sox: A horse with promise who picked up a career best win in the listed Platinum Stakes at Cork 16 days ago. She made headway from 2 out leading soon after staying on strongly in the final 100 yards and coming home by 1 3/4 lengths. She definitely has more to offer and can complete a hat-trick here.

4.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Abergwaun Stakes.

7: Little Queenie: A useful horse who has 2 wins from 5 runs this year her last being a career best at Dundalk 17 days ago. She disputed the lead 1 1/2 out going to the front in the final 100 yards eventually winning by 1 1/2 lengths. She is going in the right direction and can follow up here. 

31/8/24 The Curragh

 Friday's best came at Down Royal where Run For Oscar was 2nd. The 4/6 favourite was prominent making headway to lead from 3 out, he was passed on the run-in by Tag Man who won by 1 1/2 lengths. Over at Wexford Common Practice was 5th in a race won by Gorgeous Tom who beat Monbeg Park by 3 lengths.

 There are 8 races at The Curragh on Saturday with 3 highlights. 

2.20: Newtownanner Stud Irish EBF Stakes (Group 3)

4: Dreamy: A highly promising horse who won on debut at Goodwood 30 days ago. She tracked the leaders sitting 2nd a furlong out, she stayed on in the closing stages coming home by a neck. She can take the step up in class in her stride and with improvement expected should follow up here. 

3.25: Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes (Group 3)

5: Hanalia: A decent horse who finished a good 6th in the Irish Oaks on this course when last seen 42 days ago. She didn't get a clear run from 2 out keeping on at the same pace inside the final furlong. There is still more to come dropping down in trip and she can return to winning ways here. 

4.35: Paddy Power Supporting Cancer Trials Irish Cambridgeshire. 

7: Blues Emperor: A course and distance winner who was a respectable fifth at Galway 32 days ago. He was a neck second in this race 12 months ago off a higher mark and can go one better here. 

30/8/24 Wexford & Down Royal

 Thursday's winner at Navan was Runninsonofagun. The 9/4 shot made all the running travelling well from 2 out, he went clear soon after and despite having a reduced advantage inside the final furlong he kept on well beating Mighty Day by 3/4 of a length. In the other race Saratoga Special was 3rd with the contest going to Town And Country who beat Snapdragon by a head.

 A Friday double header sees 8 races at Wexford and 7 at Down Royal with 2 standing out. 

Wexford 6.15: Dan & Breda Byrne Memorial Rated Novice Chase. 

2: Common Practice: A useful hurdler who impressed when picking up a career best win on chase debut here last month. He was 4th at halfway making headway into 2nd entering the straight, he led from 2 out going clear at the last and coming home by 8 lengths. He returns to this sphere after finishing 3rd on the flat 2 weeks ago and can win again.

Down Royal 6.25: Pepsico (Walkers Snacks) Hurdle. 

3: Run For Oscar: A decent horse who has been running well this summer and won on hurdles return at Kilbeggan 20 days ago. He led after the 9th having a 2 length advantage at the last, he stayed on well comfortably winning by 6 1/2 lengths. He should go well again here and follow up. 

29/8/24 Navan

 Wednesday's best at Bellewstown came from Arctic Gale who was 2nd. The 11/10 favourite tracked the leader early making headway to challenge before 3 out, he made a mistake at the last making no impression on the run-in allowing Millforce to win by 2 1/2 lengths. The other pick Boom Boom Boom failed to finish being pulled up 3 out.

 Seven races take place at Navan on Thursday with 2 main events. 

3.30: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. 

9: Saratoga Special: A promising horse who was a decent second behind Treasure Isle in a listed race at The Curragh on her last outing 12 days ago. She made headway sitting 4th two out, she soon moved into 2nd keeping on inside the final furlong. She sets a high bar here and on her 3rd career start should open her account. 

4.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Optional Claiming Maiden.

6: Runninsonofagun: A lightly-raced horse who began his career with two 4th placed finishes before coming 6th on this course 47 days ago. He was in midfield early briefly disputing the lead from 2 out, he had no extra soon after keeping on at one pace. He goes significantly up in trip here and on form should pick up a first win.

28/8/24 Bellewstown

 Tuesday's best at Bellewstown came from Fiona Maccoul who was 3rd. The 6/5 favourite was in midfield early making headway 2 out, she stayed on well in the final 110 yards but had no extra towards the finish. Gazelle D'or won beating Bobbi Rosa by 1/2 a length. In the other race Coul Dreamer was 4th with the contest going to Kebelle who beat Mythical Rock by 6 lengths.

 A second day at Bellewstown on Wednesday sees 8 races and 2 features. 

4.15: Dave Harvey Memorial Claiming Hurdle. 

13: Boom Boom Boom: A useful hurdler who's last win came at Ballinrobe in July. He was 5th at halfway challenging from 2 out, he led narrowly before the last asserting himself entering the straight easily coming home by 8 lengths. He was a respectable 2nd behind the reopposing Dollar Value at Sligo 20 days ago and can go one better here. 

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

2: Arctic Gale: A decent horse who had one win from two runs last season. He was a good second at Ballinrobe when last seen 16 days ago leading from the 5th being challenged entering the straight, he kept on well but was caught on the line going down by a nose. He tops the shortlist here and can achieve a 2nd career win. 

27/8/24 Bellewstown

 On Monday at Downpatrick Prairie Dancer won. The 15/8 shot was 2nd at halfway but made no impression early on the run-in, he kept on well under pressure to lead on the line beating Watch The Weather by a neck. Over at Ballinrobe Mount Anglesby was 2nd. The 11/4 chance tracked the leaders making progress into 4th three out, he was soon 3rd going 2nd a furlong from the finish but he had no extra allowing Tell Me This to win by 5 lengths. 

The week continues with 8 races at Bellewstown on Tuesday where we have 2 highlights. 

4.15: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden. 

2: Coul Dreamer: A promising horse who was 3rd on debut at Gowran Park 2 weeks ago. He tracked the leaders early travelling well to take 3rd close to home. He definitely wasn't disgraced and with improvement expected he should be taken seriously and can open his account here. 

6.15: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

6: Fiona Maccoul: A good-looking horse who caught the eye when 5th on debut at The Curragh 10 days ago. She was slowly away and was short of room 2 out, she recovered keeping on well to take 5th close to home. She should build on that performance here and can pick up a 1st career win. 

26/8/24 Downpatrick & Ballinrobe

 A very poor Sunday at Naas saw No Return finish 7th in a race won by Rebel Diamond who beat Rion Rubette by a head while in the days Group 3 Nighteyes was 11th with Shandy taking the contest beating Firebird by a head.

 There are seven races at both Downpatrick and Ballinrobe on a busy Monday with 2 standing out. 

Downpatrick 4.15: C Russell Auto Sales Beginners Chase. 

2: Prairie Dancer: A useful horse who was a below form 6th at Kilbeggan when last seen 45 days ago. He disputed the lead going to the front before the 8th, he was passed 4 out and soon had no extra. That run can be overlooked and if he returns to the form that saw him finish 2nd at Tipperary in May then he is the one to beat here. 

Ballinrobe 5.10: Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle. 

5: Mount Anglesby: A fair hurdler who was a good second on his first run for a new yard at Tramore 10 days ago. He led early but had dropped to 4th by Halfway, he improved moving into 2nd before the last keeping on at one pace. There is definitely more to come and he can go one better here. 

25/8/24 Naas

 An excellent Saturday saw two of my picks win both at The Curragh. In the first Group 2 Henri Matisse travelled well challenging inside the final furlong, the 5/6 favourite led in the closing stages keeping on to beat Hotazhell by a length. The other big race saw Bedtime Story sit 3rd at halfway, the 1/16 favourite improved to take the lead in the final 50 yards beating Exactly by 1/2 a length. Over at Killarney El Champo was 2nd, he disputed the lead 3 out but made no impression soon after, the 13/2 shot stayed on well pressing the leader close to home going down by 1 1/4 lengths.

 Eight races take place at Naas on Sunday where there are 2 main events. 

2.32: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

8: No Return: A lightly-raced horse who was a promising 3rd on debut over course and distance and was then 8th in the Group 3 Anglesey Stakes at The Curragh 35 days ago. The step up may have come too soon but he definitely has lots of potential and he can open his account here going down in class.

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

7: Nighteyes: An improving filly who made it 3 wins from her last 4 starts when taking a listed race over course and distance 32 days ago. She made headway from a furlong out staying on strongly to lead in the closing stages and come home by 3 lengths. She can continue her good form and follow up here.

24/8/24 The Curragh & Killarney

 A decent Friday saw two of my picks win. At Kilbeggan Tounsivator disputed the lead early making progress into 2nd two out, he moved to the front soon after going clear on the run-in easily beating Ninth Titan by 14 lenghts. Over at Killarney One Look was in midfield at halfway sitting 7th a furlong out, she improved leading close to home beating Princess Child by a length. The other pick Taipan was 8th in a race won by Prydwen who beat Vera Verto by 2 3/4 lenghts. 

 There are 8 races at both The Curragh and Killarney on Saturday with 3 features. 

The Curragh 3.30: Coolmore Stud Wootton Bassett Irish EBF Futurity Stakes (Group 2)

1: Henri Matisse: A promising horse who was last seen winning the GAIN Railway Stakes on this course 55 days ago. He recovered from a poor start to sit 5th at halfway, he made progress from a furlong out leading in the closing stages coming home by 1/2 a length. There is definitely more to come and he can complete a hat-trick here.

The Curragh 4.05: Alpha Centauri Debutante Stakes (Group 2)

2: Bedtime Story: An excellent filly who impressed when winning the Chesham at Royal Ascot by 9 1/2 lenghts. She followed up in the Silver Flash Stakes at Leopardstown in July leading from a furlong out coming home by 3 1/2 lenghts. She is hard to look past here and should make it 4 from 4.

Killarney 5.25: O'Donoghue Ring Collection Handicap Chase. 

13: El Champo: A decent horse who was a good 3rd behind the reopposing The Dasher Conway at Kilbeggan on his last outing back in April. With cheekpieces back on here he has an excellent chance to reverse the placings and pick up a 4th career win.

23/8/24 Kilbeggan & Killarney

 A very poor Thursday saw Birdman finish 6th at Leopardstown in a race won by Chemistry who beat Kinesiology after a stewards enquiry while over at Killarney Je T'ai Porte was 7th with the contest going to Miss Fourie who beat Mighty Tom by an easy 9 lengths. 

 A Friday double header sees 7 races at Kilbeggan and 8 at Killarney with 3 highlights. 

Kilbeggan 5.25: Follow Kilbeggan On Instagram Novice Hurdle. 

3: Tounsivator: Won on hurdles debut at Naas back in February and after a couple of poor runs bounced back to finish an excellent second at Galway 3 weeks ago. He tracked the leaders disputing the lead entering the straight, he led narrowly inside the final furlong being passed close to home. He sets the standard here and can go one better. 

Killarney 5.42: Irish Stallion Farms Irish EBF Vincent O’Brien Ruby Stakes.

8: One Look: A lightly-raced horse who was a creditable 2nd behind Wingspan in a listed race at Gowran Park 9 days ago. She was 7th at halfway improving to sit 4th a furlong out, she kept on well in the closing stages taking 2nd in the final strides. She has the edge on form and can pick up a 3rd career win here.

Killarney 7.12: Kellihers Toyota Kingdom Gold Cup Handicap. 

2: Taipan: A course and distance winner who returned after 14 months off to win at Galway 21 days ago. He made all the running staying on strongly and comfortably coming home by 2 1/2 lengths. He is back in handicap company here and can follow up.

22/8/24 Killarney & Leopardstown

 Wednesday's winner at Sligo was Morricone. The 9/4 favourite was always prominent leading from 2 out, he was passed approaching the last but led again on the run-in keeping on well beating Luimneach by 1/2 a length. In the other race Benjis Benefit was 12th with the contest going to High Honour who beat Mephisto by a neck.

 There are 8 races at Killarney and 7 at Leopardstown on Thursday with 2 main events. 

Killarney 5.06: GMIB Handicap Hurdle. 

8: Je T'ai Porte: Picked up her latest win at Roscommon in June and was a creditable 2nd over course and distance when last seen 34 days ago. She led early but was passed 2 out keeping on at one pace. She switches to hurdles here and on form she has a good chance. 

Leopardstown 6.25: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Vinnie Roe Stakes. 

3: Birdman: A promising horse who has two wins from three runs this year. He was a good 3rd behind Illinois in the Queens Vase at Royal Ascot on his last outing 64 days ago and with more to offer he looks like the one to beat here. 

21/8/24 Sligo

 Tuesday's only winner at Roscommon was J'Adore Chris. The 1/3 favourite recovered from a poor start to sit 2nd at halfway, she led from 2 out pulling away in the closing stages beating William F Browne by 3/4 of a length. In the other race Fiery Lucy was a non-runner. 

 Sligo stages Wednesday's action where on a 7 race card 2 stand out. 

5.38: Aidan Moffitt Memorial Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Benjis Benefit: A decent horse who opened his account at Down Royal in May. He was always prominent disputing the lead 2 out, he was short of room towards the finish crossing the line 2nd but he was awarded the race in the stewards room. He has run well since and with cheekpieces on for the 1st time he has an excellent chance here. 

7.10: Francie 'Banger' Burns Handicap Hurdle. 

2: Morricone: Returned after 3 months off to finish a creditable 3rd at Galway 17 days ago. He was 5th at halfway and despite a mistake 2 out he was 2nd at the last, he dropped to 3rd in the final 100 yards keeping on at one pace. He goes back up to a longer trip here which will suit and he can add a 4th win to his record. 

20/8/24 Roscommon

 After a day off Irish racing returns on Tuesday with 7 contests at Roscommon where there are 2 features. 

5.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

12: J'Adore Chris: A good filly who has finished second on both her starts including at Killarney 34 days ago. She led early but was passed 4 out, she had dropped to 4th when an incident in the final 50 yards left her in 2nd and she only lost by 3/4 of a length. She sets the clear standard here and is the one to beat. 

6.20: Irish EBF Auction Series Race.

3: Fiery Lucy: A decent horse who last won at Fairyhouse in June. She was a good second behind Heavens Gate in the Ballyhane Stakes at Naas when last seen 2 weeks ago and going up in trip here should suit, she is hard to oppose and can return to winning ways. 

18/8/24 Results

 A very poor Sunday at Tramore saw Miss Tempo finish 6th in a race won by Space Tourist who beat A Penny A Hundred by 1/2 a length while in the later race Garde La Peche failed to finish being pulled up 4 out, Lake Chad took the contest beating Natural Breeze by an easy 13 lengths.

 After today's action Irish racing takes a break on Monday, there are meetings at Catterick, Worcester, Yarmouth and Windsor. The next Irish card is at Roscommon on Tuesday tips for the features will be up on Monday night. 

18/8/24 Tramore

 A good Saturday saw two of my picks win. At The Curragh Continuous travelled well disputing the lead from 3 out, the 4/7 favourite led narrowly soon after staying on and beating Trustyourinstinct by 1/2 a length. Over at Tramore Riviera Queen led from 3 out but was soon passed, she rallied to lead again 1 1/2 out keeping on to beat Strolling by a neck. In the days other race Absurde was 4th with Grosvenor Square taking the contest beating Courageous Strike by an unchallenged 20 lengths. 

 There are 7 races at Tramore on Sunday with 2 highlights. 

3.33: Victoria House Tramore Mares Beginners Chase. 

8: Miss Tempo: A useful hurdler who put in her best performance over fences when 3rd at Wexford 11 days ago. She was 8th at halfway improving to take 3rd two out. She should build on that here and with her yard in good form she can pick up a 4th career win.

4.03: McCartney's Irish Bar Lexington Handicap Chase. 

4: Garde La Peche: A promising horse who made a winning start over fences at Clonmel in June. She travelled well to lead from 2 out staying on strongly and coming home by 2 1/4 lengths. She was a good 2nd when last seen at Tipperary 47 days ago and with more to come she can win again here.

17/8/24 The Curragh & Tramore

 Our only winner on Friday came in the Group 3 at Cork where Shamida was 4th at halfway making headway to lead from 2 out, the 4/1 shot was challenged in the final furlong but held on to beat Mother Nature by 1/2 a length. At Tramore Zanahiyr was 2nd, the 8/15 favourite led early being pressed after a mistake 2 out, he was passed making no impression from the last allowing Saylavee to win by 1 1/4 lengths. The other pick Jumbly was 8th in a race won by Super Sox who beat Dance Night Andday by 1 3/4 lengths. 

 The weekend begins with 8 races at The Curragh and 7 at Tramore and there are 3 main events. 

The Curragh 4.00: Shoda Market Cafe Royal Whip Stakes (Group 3)

1: Continuous: A high-class horse who has been a course winner in his career. He was slightly below form when fifth in the Hardwicke at Royal Ascot when last seen 56 days ago but that return can be discounted and he should have enough to take this. 

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

2: Absurde: A smart horse who won the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival on his last outing back in March. He stayed on well there and despite being off 155 days last year’s Ebor winner has an excellent chance and should follow up here.

Tramore 5.00: Morris DIY Irish EBF Fillies Maiden. 

3: Riviera Queen: A lightly-raced horse who was a decent 2nd at Galway two weeks ago. She travelled well taking 2nd inside the final furlong. She is the pick on form here and can go one better. 

16/8/24 Tramore & Cork

 A very poor Thursday saw Shamwari finish 7th at Dundalk in a race won by Ameerat Jumaira who beat Star Harbour by 3/4 of a length while at Tramore Red Glory was 8th with the contest going to Rauzan who beat Granpa Ger by 3 lengths.

 Seven races take place at Tramore and eight at Cork on Friday with 3 standing out. 

Tramore 5.00: Clem Jacob Hire Chase.

2: Zanahiyr: A smart hurdler who's latest win came at Thurles in February. He was a very creditable 3rd in the Galway Plate when last seen 16 days ago making headway entering the straight going 2nd a furlong out, he dropped to 3rd in the closing stages but still looked back to his best. He has an excellent chance here and can pick up his 8th career win.

Cork 5.22: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Platinum Stakes.

4: Jumbly: A useful mare who was a bit below form when 5th in the Group 3 Athasi Stakes at The Curragh back in May. Despite being off 102 days conditions here should suit as will the drop in grade and she can return to winning ways. 

Cork 6.22: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Give Thanks Stakes (Group 3)

3: Shamida: An excellent filly who won three times last year including Group 3's at Leopardstown and The Curragh. She was 6th on reappearance in July and with that behind her she should take this if back to the top of her game.

15/8/24 Dundalk & Tramore

 Wednesday's best at Gowran Park came from Dignam who was 2nd. The 9/4 favourite was prominent leading for a second time entering the straight, he was passed 2 out keeping on at one pace allowing Nancy J to win by a neck. In the other race Azada was a non-runner. 

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

Dundalk 5.10: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Red God Handicap. 

2: Shamwari: A course and distance winner in his career who was a bit below form when finishing 3rd here on his last outing back in April. He tracked the leaders sitting 4th entering the straight, he took 3rd a furlong out keeping on at one pace. Despite being off 132 days he shouldn’t be overlooked on handicap debut and he can take this.

Tramore 6.50: Waterford FC Handicap Hurdle. 

8: Red Glory: A horse with a good recent record who picked up a career best win at Killarney a month ago. He led for a third time on the run-in staying on well to win by 1/2 a length. A 5lb rise shouldn’t affect him and he looks like the one to beat here on his follow up bid.

14/8/24 Gowran Park

 After a day off Irish racing returns on Wednesday night with 7 contests at Gowran Park where we have 2 highlights. 

5.40: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

1: Dignam: A horse who showed promise when 3rd on debut at Leopardstown 27 days ago. He was 4th approaching halfway improving to take 3rd a furlong out. Despite making no impression in the final 150 yards he should go well again with that run under his belt and he can open his account here.

6.50: Darley Irish EBF Hurry Harriet Stakes.

5: Azada: A decent filly who was a good 3rd behind Lord Massusus in a listed race at The Curragh when last seen 45 days ago. She made progress from halfway going 3rd two out, despite being passed she kept on well regaining 3rd close to home. The longer trip here will suit and she can return to winning ways. 

12/8/24 Results

 On Monday at Ballinrobe both Baltinglass Hill and Streets Of Doyen were non-runner's. Drumgill won the 6.23 beating Tomas O Maille by 7 lengths with the 7.23 going to Dorans Law who beat Fildais by 4 1/2 lengths. 

 After today's action Irish racing takes a break on Tuesday, there are meetings at Lingfield, Nottingham and Hamilton. The next Irish card is at Gowran Park on Wednesday tips for the highlights will be up on Tuesday night.

12/8/24 Ballinrobe

 Sunday's winner at Downpatrick was Mordor. The 15/8 favourite sat 2nd after the 6th disputing the lead at the last, he moved to the front on the run-in beating Dollar Value by 3 1/2 lengths. The other pick Bella Bliss was 5th in a race won by Hidden Land who beat Cobra Queen by 3 1/2 lengths. 

 A new week begins with 7 races at Ballinrobe on Monday where there are 2 main events. 

6.23: Cummins Homevalue Hardware Handicap Hurdle. 

8: Baltinglass Hill: A course and distance winner in his career who's latest victory came at Roscommon in June. He was a good second at Wexford 3 days ago leading from 4 out and despite being challenged he held on until the run-in going down by 1/2 a length. The quick return shouldn't be a problem and he can go one better here. 

7.23: Burleigh Accountancy Handicap Hurdle. 

1: Streets Of Doyen: A decent horse who was a respectable 6th at Killarney when last seen 24 days ago. This race isn't as competitive as the contests he's run in so far this year and it looks like a good opportunity for him to return to winning ways. 

11/8/24 Downpatrick

 On a busy Saturday all 3 of my picks finished 2nd. In the Group 3 at The Curragh Kind Of Blue was in midfield sitting 4th 150 yards out, the 11/4 favourite stayed on well taking 2nd towards the finish just failing to reach Givemethebeatboys who won by a head. The days Group 1 saw Whistlejacket dispute the lead early moving to the front just over a furlong out, the 8/13 favourite was passed soon after by Babouche who won by 1 1/2 lengths. Over at Kilbeggan Winding River lost to The Dara Man by 2 lengths. 

 Seven races take place at Downpatrick on Sunday where 2 stand out. 

2.48: Congratulations To Pinkerton On Winning The Tote Galway Plate Rated Hurdle. 

4: Mordor: A useful hurdler who's last win came at Sligo in July. He was a creditable 2nd when last seen at Galway 2 weeks ago sitting 4th approaching the last taking 2nd in the final 100 yards. He should continue his excellent year here and return to winning ways. 

3.48: Mighty Women Awards Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

2: Bella Bliss: A horse in good form who picked up 3 wins last season. She was a decent 4th on her latest outing at Galway 11 days ago travelling well from the last to take 4th inside the final furlong. She wears cheekpieces for the first time here and in a competitive race she just gets the vote.

10/8/24 The Curragh & Kilbeggan

 Friday's winner came at Tipperary where January was 3rd approaching halfway improving to lead a furlong out, the 1/2 favourite drew clear in the closing stages beating Beckman by 4 lengths. Over at Wexford Kilmurry JJ was 6th in a race won by Walkonthebriteside who beat Jimli's Cave by 3/4 of a length. 

 There are 8 races at both The Curragh and Kilbeggan on Saturday with 2 big group contests taking centre stage. 

The Curragh 3.25: FBD Hotels & Resorts Heritage Hotel Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Group 3)

11: Kind Of Blue: A lightly-raced horse who was a good 3rd behind Elite Status in the Hackwood Stakes at Newbury when last seen 3 weeks ago. He made headway from a furlong out staying on towards the finish. He is progressing well and that should continue here just giving him the nod.

The Curragh 4.35: Keenland Phoenix Stakes (Group 1)

4: Whistlejacket: A high-class horse who after disappointing at Royal Ascot got back on track when winning the July Stakes at Newmarket 30 days ago. He made all the running going clear in the final furlong beating Billboard Star by 1 3/4 lengths. He looks like a top sprinting prospect and is the one to beat here. 

The highlight at Kilbeggan is the 7.30 where my pick is number 9 Winding River.

9/8/24 Tipperary & Wexford

 Thursday's only winner came in the Ballyroan at Leopardstown where Crystal Black was 4th early improving to sit 2nd two out. The 11/10 favourite soon led going clear in the final 150 yards easily beating The Euphrates by 5 lengths. In the other Group 3 Ylang Ylang was 7th in a race won by Mutasarref who beat Mountain Bear by 1/2 a length while over at Sligo Rauzan was a non-runner. 

 There is another double header on Friday which sees 7 races at both Tipperary and Wexford with 2 features. 

Tipperary 6.25: Coolmore Stud Churchill Stakes. 

7: January: A promising horse who was a good 3rd behind Truly Enchanting in the Group 2 Airlie Stud Stakes at The Curragh when last seen 41 days ago. She goes back up in trip here and with plenty more to offer she can resume winning ways. 

Wexford 6.40: Pat Farrell Memorial Handicap Hurdle. 

3: Kilmurry JJ: A horse with a decent record who couldn't complete a hat-trick when unseating his rider at Tipperary 38 days ago. That can be discounted and a return to hurdles should suit. He is still in top form and can bounce back here. 

8/8/24 Leopardstown & Sligo

 The best on Wednesday came at Sligo where Shavasi was 3rd. The 9/2 shot was up with the leaders early sitting 3rd at halfway, she made no impression inside the final furlong while upfront No Niki No beat Beechwood by a neck. Over at Wexford Sea Aster failed to finish. The 5/2 favourite was challenging from 3 out but weakened falling at the last, Outside The Door won beating Favori Logique by a neck. 

 There are 8 races at Leopardstown and 7 at Sligo on Thursday with 3 highlights. 

Leopardstown 5.52: Bahrain Turf Club Desmond Stakes (Group 3)

9: Ylang Ylang: A decent filly who won 3 times in her juvenile career the standout being the Group 1 Fillies Mile at Newmarket. She was a good 5th in the 1000 Guineas on reappearance but couldn't build on that when 6th in the Oaks at Epsom. That run can be overlooked and having had time to recover she should take this. 

Sligo 6.05: Kilcawley Construction Rated Novice Hurdle. 

4: Rauzan: A useful hurdler who picked up a career best win at Downpatrick 24 days ago. He recovered after being hampered at the 5th travelling well to lead on the run-in, he drew clear easily coming home by 12 lengths. That completed a hat-trick and he can achieve the 4-timer here.

Leopardstown 6.22: Xin Gin Ballyroan Stakes (Group 3)

2: Crystal Black: A progressive horse who made it 4 wins in a row at Royal Ascot 7 weeks ago. He led inside the final furlong beating Epic Poet by 2 1/4 lengths. He should continue his excellent form here and take another victory. 

7/8/24 Sligo & Wexford

 A very poor Tuesday saw both my picks fail to finish. In the 6.30 Hunting Brook was pulled up before the 2nd with Housemartin winning beating Wa Wa by 3 1/4 lengths while in the 7.00 San Salvador was challenging when falling at the 3rd. Presenting Lad won the race beating Fremantle Doctor by 2 1/4 lengths. 

 A Wednesday double header sees 7 races at Sligo and 8 at Wexford with 2 main events. 

Sligo 5.30: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Connacht Oaks Fillies Handicap. 

7: Shavas: A good horse who has shown progression in each of her three starts culminating with a win at Killarney 22 days ago. She was 2nd at halfway challenging 1 1/2 out, she led narrowly soon after keeping on well to win by 3/4 of a length. She goes back up in trip here on handicap debut and can follow up. 

Wexford 7.15: Treo Eile Handicap Chase.

7: Sea Aster: A promising horse who's latest win came at Clonmel in June. She was a creditable 2nd on this course when last seen 2 weeks ago leading entering the straight being passed before the last. Improvement is expected and she can go one better here. 

6/8/24 Roscommon

 An excellent start to the week saw both my picks win. At Cork Saint Sam made all the running soon going clear, the 1/4 favourite asserted himself from 3 out very easily beating Tag Man by 27 lengths. Over at Naas Heavens Gate led early keeping on well in the final 150 yards beating Fiery Lucy by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Roscommon stages an 8 race card on Tuesday with 2 standing out. 

6.30: Connolly's Red Mills Handicap Hurdle. 

4: Hunting Brook: A decent horse who was a good second on fences debut at Kilbeggan 81 days ago. He was 3rd three out and was challenging when hampered before the last, he kept on well on the run-in but couldn't reach the winner going down by 1/2 a length. He switches to hurdles here and with his yard in good form he can go one better. 

7.00: J.F. Hanley Groundscare Beginners Chase. 

7: San Salvador: A promising horse who has been a good winner over hurdles. He was 4th on fences debut at Limerick when last seen back in May 2023 and despite being off 14 months and going down in trip he can give the trainer and jockey combination who took this 12 months ago another win here.

5/8/24 Cork & Naas

 A poor Sunday at Galway saw Barnacullia fail to finish, the 7/4 favourite made no impression from 3 out weakening and being pulled up soon after. Saint Roi took the race beating The Dasher Conway by 1 1/4 lengths. The other pick This Songisforyou was a non-runner. 

 A busy week begins on Monday with 8 races at Cork and 7 at Naas where we have 2 features. 

Cork 4.35: Follow Us On Twitter Hurdle. 

5: Saint Sam: A very smart horse who got back on track with a creditable 2nd in a chase at Listowel when last seen 63 days ago. He led early building an advantage from the 2nd, his lead was reduced after the 7th and he was passed 2 out eventually going down by 5 lengths. He makes his hurdles return here and looks the one to beat.

Naas 4.50: Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes.

17: Heavens Gate: A lightly-raced horse who has run well in group races on her last two starts finishing 3rd in both the Albany at Royal Ascot and behind Arabian Dusk in the Duchess Of Cambridge at Newmarket 24 days ago. She sets the clear standard and is hard to look past here.

4/8/24 Galway

 Saturday's winner at Galway was Puppet Master. The 1/2 favourite disputed the lead at halfway moving to the front 1 1/2 furlongs out, he kept on strongly in the closing stages beating Starry Desert by 4 lengths. In the other race Baltic Bird was 12th with The Wallpark taking the contest beating So Scottish by 1/2 a length. 

 The Galway Summer Festival reaches it’s conclusion on Sunday with 8 races and 2 highlights. 

3.30: Lord Hemphill Memorial Handicap Chase. 

5: Barnacullia: A course and distance winner who was a creditable 6th on the flat here 4 days ago. He was 8th a furlong out and despite keeping on at one pace he took 6th in the closing stages. He switches back to chasing here and tops the shortlist. 

4.00: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Ahonoora Handicap. 

7: This Songisforyou: A lightly-raced horse who was a very good 3rd on this course on Tuesday. He was 4th at halfway disputing the lead from a furlong out, he led briefly being passed in the final 150 yards. Despite the quick turnaround he can return to winning ways here. 

3/8/24 Galway

 Friday's best at Galway came from Flanking Maneuver who was 3rd. The 17/2 shot didn't get a clear run after being badly hampered at the 10th but improved to sit 5th after the last, he stayed on without threatening the leaders taking 3rd close to home while Battleoverdoyen won beating Moonovercloon by a nose. In the other contest Sirius was 4th in a race won by Eagle's Way who beat Chally Chute by a short head. 

 It's the penultimate day at Galway on Saturday with 8 races and 2 taking centre stage. 

2.30: Boylesports Handicap Hurdle. 

17: Baltic Bird: A decent horse who ran well to finish a good second on this course five days ago. He led a furlong out being passed in the final 100 yards just having no extra close to home. He has some excellent hurdles form and can go one better here.

3.05: Boylesports Money Back If 2nd To SP Fav Irish EBF Maiden. 

2: Puppet Master: A horse with promise who finished 2nd on debut at Killarney 19 days ago. He was 5th at halfway making progress into 3rd three out, he moved into 2nd in the closing stages going down by 1 3/4 lengths. He can definitely build on that here and give his trainer another win in this race. 

2/8/24 Galway

 Thursday's winner at Galway was Ashdale Bob. The 13/8 favourite led early and was 3 lengths clear 4 out, he was passed a furlong out but kept on well to lead for a second time in the closing stages beating Saylavee by 1/2 a length. The other pick My Mate Mozzie was 3rd in a race won by Nurburgring who beat Ndaawi by 7 lengths. 

 Galway enters it's fifth day on Friday where on an 8 race card there are 2 main events. 

6.00: Guinness Galway Blazers Handicap Chase. 

3: Flanking Maneuver: An interesting horse who after a couple of poor runs got back on track when 4th at Kilbeggan 3 weeks ago. He was 6th two out improving to go 4th before the last keeping on at the same pace on the run-in. He has a tongue strap back on here and is the pick on form. 

6.35: Guinness Handicap. 

6: Sirius: Impressed when winning here on Monday leading in the final 100 yards and coming home by 3 1/2 lengths. Despite having a 7lb penalty for that victory that may not be enough to stop her and she has to be taken seriously as she attempts to achieve a quick double.