1/6/25 Listowel & Kilbeggan

 The best on a poor Saturday came at Listowel where Miss Corby was 6th in a race won by Duty Bound who beat Fast Felix by 1/2 a length. Over at Tramore Priory Park failed to finish being pulled up 3 out.

 A new month begins on Sunday with 7 races at both Listowel and Kilbeggan with 2 highlights. 

Listowel 2.02: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

9: Gavoo: A promising horse who was 2nd on debut at The Curragh 27 days ago. He made headway from 2 out taking 2nd in the final 150 yards, he made no impression keeping on at one pace. He was only beaten by the impressive Andab that day and with more to come this big player can go one better here. 

Kilbeggan 4.52: GUY Clothing & KODE Clothing & Footwear Handicap Chase. 

5: Cheerful Chap: A consistent horse with an excellent record who was a good second at Navan when last seen 71 days ago. He challenged from 4 out leading narrowly soon after. He was passed on the run-in going down by 4 1/2 lengths. He should make his presence felt again here and pick up a 4th career win. 

31/5/25 Listowel & Tramore

 Friday's winner came at Tramore where Clarens was 2nd early being left in the lead from 5 out. Despite a mistake at the last the 10/3 shot kept on well on the run-in beating Itsalonglongroad by 2 lengths. Over at Down Royal Poetic Sound was 7th in a race won by Goodie Two Shoes who beat La Lsla Mujeres by 1 1/2 lengths. 

A busy Saturday sees 7 races at both Listowel and Tramore with 2 features. 

Listowel 4.13: Insurance Wise Handicap Hurdle. 

14: Miss Corby: A progressive horse who left recent efforts behind when winning at Ballinrobe 50 days ago. She was 5th two out improving to lead inside the final furlong, she stayed on well coming home by 1 3/4 lengths. The step up in trip here is in her favour and she can follow up on handicap debut. 

Tramore 5.45: Tramore Handicap Chase. 

5: Priory Park: A good horse who showed improvement to win at Limerick just 9 days ago. He wasn't fluent but made headway to lead at the 12th. He asserted himself from 2 out keeping on and winning by 2 1/4 lengths. Despite a 5lb weight rise he can win again here.

30/5/25 Tramore & Down Royal

 On Thursday both my picks finished 3rd. At Limerick De Temps En Temps led early but was passed 2 out. The 1/3 favourite wasn’t fluent from the last allowing Elusive Ogie to beat The Man's Room by 2 lengths. Over at Fairyhouse Gazelle D'or made headway from 2 out but had no extra losing 2nd in the final 110 yards. Upfront No Return beat Misappropriation by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 There is another double header on Friday with 7 races at both Tramore and Down Royal with 2 topping the bill. 

Tramore 6.10: Vince Power Memorial Handicap Chase. 

1: Clarens: A decent horse who's last win came over course and distance in April. He was a creditable 3rd at Tipperary on his final start 22 days ago where he recovered from being badly hampered 4 out taking 3rd on the run-in. He can continue his good start over fences by winning again here.

Down Royal 7.08: His Majesty's Plate.

7: Poetic Sound: A lightly-raced horse who won two of his three starts last season and continued his improvement when 3rd behind Kyprios in the Vintage Crop at Navan 34 days ago. He led early being passed a furlong out dropping to 3rd on the line. The longer trip here should suit and with more to offer he can pick up a third career win.

29/5/25 Limerick & Fairyhouse

 An excellent Wednesday at Wexford saw both my picks win. In the opener Beacon Edge was in midfield early improving to challenge 3 out. He was left in front after the leader unseated his rider at the last pulling away on the run-in beating Must Meet Cecil by an easy 22 lengths. In the other race Sunchart made good headway to lead from 2 out going clear on the run-in. The 7/4 favourite comfortably beat Farfromnowhere by 4 1/4 lengths.

 A Thursday double header sees 7 races at both Limerick and Fairyhouse with 2 standing out. 

Limerick 5.10: Connolly's Red Mills Irish EBF Auction Maiden Hurdle. 

3: De Temps En Temps: A promising horse who's last win came at Fairyhouse in January. He was 6th two out staying on well to lead in the closing stages coming home by 2 1/4 lengths. He was 4th on the same course when last seen 96 days ago but is definitely worth another chance here. 

Fairyhouse 6.27: Fairynights At Fairyhouse Handicap. 

3: Gazelle D'Or: A good horse who won at The Curragh on her return last month. She made headway from 2 out travelling well to lead on the line and just winning by a nose. She wasn't able to complete the hat-trick at Naas 19 days ago but she can quickly resume winning ways here. 

28/5/25 Wexford

 Tuesday's winner came at Ballinrobe where Miss Gherkin was 3rd three out but soon found herself short of room. The 5/2 shot switched to the left from the last quickening to lead on the run-in going clear and easily beating Fratas by 7 lengths. Over at Tipperary Spring Is Here was 3rd in a race won by Rogue Legend who beat Howd'Yadoit by 3 1/4 lengths. 

 We have 8 races at Wexford on Wednesday with 2 main events. 

4.55: Wexford Claiming Hurdle. 

1: Beacon Edge: A decent horse who's best performance this year was a 2nd in a Grade 3 at Naas in January. After finishing a good 7th in the Coral Cup at the Cheltenham Festival he was below form at Aintree last time. That run can be overlooked and he should have too much for this field allowing him to achieve a 10th career win. 

5.30: Wexford Racecourse Rated Hurdle. 

5: Sunchart: A good horse who was a course and distance winner back in August. He was last seen finishing 6th behind Los Angeles in the Mooresbridge Stakes at The Curragh 23 days ago but that should be discounted and switching back to hurdles here will suit. He is a big player who can return to winning ways. 

27/5/25 Tipperary & Ballinrobe

 The best on a poor Monday at Ballinrobe came from Straight Home who was 4th in a race won by Digby who beat Jolie Jewel by 1 1/2 lengths. The other pick Happy Jacky was 7th with the contest going to Western Fold who beat Drumgill by 4 lengths. 

 A Tuesday double header sees 7 races at Tipperary and 8 at Ballinrobe with 2 highlights. 

Tipperary 6.20: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Race.

4: Spring Is Here: A well-bred horse who made a good start when 4th behind the exciting Lady Iman in the listed First Flier Stakes at The Curragh on debut 22 days ago. She was 5th two out taking 4th in the final 150 yards. There is more to come and she can open her account here. 

Ballinrobe 7.00: Monroe's Live John & Margaret Monroe Memorial Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

4: Miss Gherkin: A lightly-raced horse who was a good second on her first start for a new yard at Clonmel 12 days ago. She was fifth approaching halfway moving into 2nd a furlong out. She should build on that here and pick up a 3rd career win. 

26/5/25 Ballinrobe

 An excellent Sunday at The Curragh saw both my picks win. In the Gold Cup Los Angeles was prominent sitting 3rd at halfway. The 9/4 favourite led for a second time in the closing stages keeping on to beat Anmaat by 1/2 a length. The Irish 1,000 Guineas saw Lake Victoria take 2nd two out improving to lead approaching the final furlong.  The 10/11 favourite stayed on strongly comfortably beating California Dreamer by 2 1/4 lengths.

 There are 7 races at Ballinrobe on Monday with 2 features. 

5.30: McHale Mayo Handicap Hurdle. 

8: Straight Home: A good horse who has improved since joining Willie Mullins culminating in a career best win on this course 45 days ago. She sat 3rd at the last leading inside the final furlong staying on well and coming home by 4 lengths. Going slightly up in trip here should suit and she can win again.

6.30: McHale Mayo National Handicap Chase. 

10: Happy Jacky: A decent horse who picked up 3 wins from 7 runs last season. He was a respectable 3rd behind the reopposing Cadatharla in the Killarney National 2 weeks ago where he led early being challenged and passed entering the straight dropping to 4th two out, he kept on at one pace taking 3rd close to home. He is 8lb better off here and can achieve a 9th career win.

25/5/25 The Curragh

 Saturday's winner at The Curragh was Field Of Gold. The 1/1 favourite was 6th at halfway making progress from 3 out. He led soon after going clear inside the final furlong and comfortably beating Cosmic Year by 3 3/4 lengths. In the other race Storm Boy was 9th with the contest going to James's Delight who beat Lethal Levi by a short head. 

 There are another 8 races at The Curragh on Sunday with 2 group one's standing out. 

3.05: Tattersalls Gold Cup (Group 1)

6: Los Angeles: A good horse who enjoys running on this course winning the Irish Derby last season and the Mooresbridge on return 20 days ago. He was 2nd at halfway travelling well to lead from a furlong out, he kept on well under pressure beating the reopposing White Birch by a neck. He can build on that here and follow up.

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

9: Lake Victoria: An excellent horse who won all five starts in her juvenile season including 3 group one's, the Cheveley Park, the Moyglare Stud and her final start the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf. She looked like she needed the run when a respectable 6th on her return in the English 1,000 at Newmarket but she is the clear pick on form here and can resume winning ways. 

24/5/25 The Curragh

 The best on a poor Friday came at The Curragh where Shackleton was 4th with the Group 3 going to Thrice who beat Emit by a head. Over at Downpatrick Depalma was 6th in a race won by Goodie Girl who beat Arcland by 1/2 a length. 

 The Curragh stages 8 races on Saturday with 2 taking centre stage. 

3.05: Weatherbys Ireland Greenlands Stakes (Group 2)

7: Storm Boy: A smart horse who ran well in Australia including finishing a very good 3rd on one of his last starts in the Group 1 Golden Slipper at Rosehill back in March last year. He has big race entries at Royal Ascot on the horizon and should capitalise on the drop in class here and win on his first start for Aidan O’Brien. 

3.40: Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas (Group 1)

4: Field Of Gold: An excellent horse who impressed when winning the Craven at Newmarket on his return and was unlucky not to win the English 2,000 Guineas on the same course last time. He made good headway from 2 out finishing strongly and only going down by 1/2 a length. He should make amends here and pick up a 4th career win. 

23/5/25 Downpatrick & The Curragh

 Thursday's best at Limerick came from Jigoro who was 2nd. The 13/8 shot led early being passed after the 5th. He made no impression approaching the straight keeping on at the same pace allowing Intellotto to pull away and win by an easy 10 lengths. The days other pick Look To The West was a non-runner. 

 A double header on Friday sees 7 races at both Downpatrick and The Curragh with 2 main events. 

Downpatrick 5.35: Frank And Brian Fitzsimmons Memorial Handicap Hurdle. 

6: Depalma: A lightly-raced horse who finished a respectable 9th at Leopardstown when last seen in December. He was left with a lot to do late on against some useful runners but still showed promise and if ready to go he can make a winning return in these calmer waters. 

The Curragh 6.55: Heider Family Stables Gallinule Stakes (Group 3)

3: Shackleton: A progressive horse who's last win came on this course in September. He ended his season with a very good 3rd in the Zetland Stakes at Newmarket where he made headway from 3 out only dropping to 3rd inside the final furlong. He should continue his improvement and can win here for a yard who have an excellent record in this race.

22/5/25 Limerick

 The winner on Wednesday at Gowran Park was Pierre Royal. The 4/9 favourite made all the running going 2 lengths clear from a furlong out, he kept on well in the closing stages comfortably beating Bishopton by 3 3/4 lengths. In the other race Lemsairbat was 3rd with the contest going to Deressa who beat Gotomylovely by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 Limerick hosts Thursday's action where on a 7 race card there are 2 highlights. 

5.38: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Chase.

3: Look To The West: A good horse who opened her chase account at Kilbeggan a month ago. She led from 4 out and was soon clear, she kept strongly on the run-in comfortably coming home by 3 1/2 lengths. With further improvement likely she should win again here.

6.08: Summer Racing at Limerick Racecourse Beginners Chase. 

4: Jigoro: A promising horse who was a creditable 2nd at Cork when last seen 32 days ago. He was 5th at halfway moving into 3rd three out, he made no impression taking 2nd on the run-in. He switches from hurdles to chasing here with the step up in trip sure to suit and he can pick up a 2nd career win.

21/5/25 Gowran Park

 Tuesday's winner at Cork was Rogue Legend. The 4/6 favourite was in midfield improving to lead narrowly from 1 1/2 out, he stayed on well in the final 100 yards comfortably beating The Right One by 2 1/4 lengths. The days other pick Tropical Retreat was 5th in a race won by Red Evolution who beat Jorge Alvares by a short head. 

 There are 7 races at Gowran Park on Wednesday night with 2 features. 

6.20: INPBA Sponsored Gate June 2nd Maiden.

6: Pierre Royal: A well-bred horse who showed promise when second over course and distance on debut 2 weeks ago. He was prominent early sitting 2nd at halfway making no impression from a furlong out. He only got beaten by a horse with more experience and he should improve here opening his account. 

7.20: gowranpark1 On Twitter Fillies Race.

1: Lemsairbat: A useful French filly who was a decent 3rd for new connections on Irish debut at Sligo 17 days ago. She made progress from 2 out challenging in the final 200 yards, she kept on well taking 3rd close to home. She is the pick on form and is the one to beat here. 

20/5/25 Cork

 The best on Monday at Roscommon came from Mocking who was 2nd. The 8/13 favourite led early and was 2 lengths clear at halfway. He was passed a furlong out by Omni Man who went on to win by an easy 7 1/2 lengths. The days other pick Divelment was 3rd in a race won by Romeo Sensini who beat Check This Out by 10 lengths. 

 Tuesday sees 7 races at Cork where 2 stand out.

5.15: Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden. 

2: Rogue Legend: A promising horse who was 2nd over course and distance on debut 2 weeks ago. He made progress from 2 out keeping on well without threatening the winner going down by 1 1/2 lengths. He had a couple of others in this field behind him that day and with more to come he can confirm that form here going one better.

5.50: Follow Us On Social Media Handicap. 

9: Tropical Retreat: A decent horse who was last seen winning at Dundalk in February. She made headway from a furlong out leading in the final 100 yards coming home by 1/2 a length. Despite being off 97 days she has more to offer and can follow up here on handicap debut. 

19/5/25 Roscommon

 Sunday's best at Naas came from Whistlejacket who was 2nd. The 4/5 favorite recovered from a poor start to track the leaders challenging from halfway, he had no extra inside the final furlong allowing Babouche to win by 2 3/4 lengths. In the other race Simply Astounding was 5th with the contest going to Lady Iman who beat Green Sense by 3/4 of a length. 

 Roscommon stages 7 races on Monday where there are 2 main events. 

5.40: Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden. 

1: Divelment: A promising horse who was a decent 4th on this course on debut a week ago. He led early but was challenged from 2 out being passed and dropping to 4th close to home. With improvement likely he sets the standard and if recovered well he should open his account here. 

6.40: JTW Distribution Roscommon Maiden. 

4: Mocking: A lightly-raced horse who was a very good second at Cork when last seen 30 days ago. He was 5th at halfway challenging from 3 out, he made no impression in the final 100 yards keeping on at one pace. He was clear of the rest there and can go one better here. 

18/5/25 Naas

 The best on Saturday came at Navan where Light As Air was 3rd. The 11/10 favourite was 4th at halfway staying on well to challenge in the closing stages dropping down to 3rd late on allowing Sunriseontheboyne to beat Dakota Blue by a short head. In the other races Butterfly Wings was 7th with the contest going to Carmers who beat What's Your Game by 3 lengths while at Wexford Cullig failed to finish being pulled up 2 out.

 We have 8 races at Naas on Sunday with 2 taking centre stage. 

4.03: Coolmore Stud Irish EBF Blackbeard Fillies Sprint Stakes (Group 3)

8: Simply Astounding: A well-bred horse who impressed when winning on debut over course and distance 20 days ago. She led from 2 out travelling well and soon going clear, she stayed on strongly coming home by 1 1/4 lengths. With improvement expected she can take the step up in class in her stride and follow up here. 

4.33: Goffs Lacken Stakes (Group 3)

1: Whistlejacket: A smart horse who's 4 career wins so far have included the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket and the Group 1 Prix Morny. He defied a penalty to win a listed race at Navan on his return 22 days ago challenging inside the final furlong leading close to home and winning by 1/2 a length. He is a big player here who can taste victory again.

17/5/25 Navan & Wexford

 Friday's winner came at Leopardstown where Kyprios was 2nd after 3 furlongs moving into the lead soon after. The 1/14 favourite went clear in the closing stages keeping on well to beat Dallas Star by 1 1/2 lengths. Over at Kilbeggan Slane Hill was 3rd in a race won by Ad Caelum who beat Dartan by a head.

 On a busy Saturday there are 8 races at Navan and 7 at Wexford with 3 topping the bill. 

Navan 3.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Yeats Stakes.

5: Butterfly Wings: A horse with promise who picked up a career best win at Leopardstown just 6 days ago. She was 3rd at halfway travelling well to lead from a furlong out. She asserted herself in the final 150 yards comfortably coming home by 4 lengths. She goes up in trip here for a yard in good form and can follow up. 

Wexford 4.10: Support The Irish Injured Jockeys Fund Handicap Hurdle. 

7: Gullig: A horse who arrives in decent form winning at Cork in March by an impressive 20 lengths and then finishing runner up on her last two starts including back at Cork 27 days ago. With further improvement likely she has to be taken seriously and should go one better here. 

Navan 5.00: Royal County Handicap. 

4: Light As Air: A decent horse who ran his best race to date when 2nd at Leopardstown 48 days ago. He was short of room 2 out but recovered staying on well taking 2nd close to home. There is definitely more to come and he can achieve a first career win here.

16/5/25 Kilbeggan & Leopardstown

 The winner on Thursday at Clonmel was Trasna Na Pairce. The 10/11 favourite was 2 lengths clear five out asserting himself soon after. He kept on well on the run-in beating Keep Kool Coko by 5 lengths. The days other pick Qaasid was 7th in a race won by Colleen Danu who beat Order Of The Dance by 5 lengths. 

 There are 7 races at both Kilbeggan and Leopardstown on Friday with 2 highlights. 

Kilbeggan 6.30: Winning Post Service Station Handicap Hurdle. 

5: Slane Hill: A good horse who's last win came at Navan in November where he was clear from 3 out staying on well on the run-in and easily coming home by 9 lengths. He was a respectable 3rd at Fairyhouse when last seen 83 days ago. Going up in trip here should suit and he can achieve a 4th career win.

Leopardstown 7.23: Saval Beg Levmoss Stakes (Group 3)

1: Kyprios: A high-class horse who won this race last year. He didn't need to be at his best to win the Vintage Crop at Navan 20 days ago where he led narrowly from a furlong out keeping on well and winning by 2 lengths. He is the standout in this division and he can retain his crown here.

15/5/25 Clonmel

 Wednesday's winner at Tipperary was Eastern Wind. The 9/1 shot was 4th at halfway improving into 2nd five out. She led after a faller two out keeping on well to beat Lady Bee Great by 1/2 a length. The days other pick Portetta was 2nd. He travelled well to lead entering the straight but was passed at the last by Ballyearl who went on to win by 2 1/2 lengths. 

 On Thursday there are 7 races at Clonmel where 2 stand out. 

5.45: Aisling Kennedy Memorial (C & G) Maiden Hurdle. 

9: Trasna Na Pairce: A promising horse who finished a good 3rd at Kilbeggan when last seen 3 weeks ago. He challenged before the last but dropped down to 3rd close to home. That was an encouraging performance and with more to come he can open his account here. 

6.48: Talbot Hotel Clonmel Handicap Hurdle. 

3: Qaasid: A decent horse who has been a winner on the flat in his career. He was below form when 9th in a novice hurdle at Cork 24 days ago but that can be discounted and with improvement likely on debut in this sphere he can win for the 6th time.

14/5/25 Tipperary

 Our winner on Tuesday came at Killarney where Faiyum was 2nd at halfway challenging from a furlong out. The 30/100 favourite led in the final 200 yards keeping on well to beat De Novo by 2 1/2 lengths. Over at Sligo Faithfull Follower was 4th in a race won by Kamino Bello who beat Saint Peregrine by an easy 13 lengths. 

 Wednesday sees 7 races at Tipperary with 2 features. 

5.10: Tipperary Town Maiden Hurdle. 

13: Portetta: A lightly-raced horse who was a good 3rd at Bangor when last seen 32 days ago. He led early being challenged from 2 out, he was passed losing 2nd in the final 100 yards. He should improve here and it would be no surprise if he opened his account on hurdles debut. 

5.45: tipperaryraces.ie Mares Maiden Hurdle. 

2: Eastern Wind: A horse with a decent record who won on her last outing at Bellewstown 39 days ago. She made headway to lead from 2 out staying on well under pressure and coming home by 1/2 a length. She was travelling well and on course to be placed before being brought down at the last on hurdles debut at Naven in March so can follow up here. 

13/5/25 Sligo & Killarney

 Monday's winner came at Roscommon where Arouet sat second early improving to lead from a furlong out, the 7/4 favourite kept on well in the closing stages beating Nautical Force by 2 lengths. Over at Killarney Blood Destiny was 2nd. The 2/1 favourite recovered from a slight mistake 6 out to challenge soon after. He kept on at the same pace close to home allowing Hercule Du Seuil to win by 2 lengths. 

 There is another double header on Tuesday with 7 races at both Sligo and Killarney featuring 2 main events. 

Sligo 5.30: Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle. 

4: Faithfull Follower: A lightly-raced horse who returned after 4 months off to finish 5th at Wexford 57 days ago. He tracked the leaders but made no impression entering the straight. He needed the run so that performance can be overlooked and he can open his account here on hurdles debut. 

Killarney 5.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Race.

1: Faiyum: A promising horse who impressed when winning on debut at Naas 51 days ago. She made headway from 2 out leading soon after, she kept on well coming home by 2 3/4 lengths. She can definitely build on that here and with improvement expected this good prospect should follow up.

12/5/25 Roscommon & Killarney

 Sunday's only winner came at Leopardstown where Delacroix was always in touch leading for a second time 2 out. The 1/3 favourite asserted himself keeping on well and comfortably beating Purview by 2 3/4 lengths. In the days other races Vespertilio was 4th with the contest going to Vera's Secret who beat Fiery Lucy by 4 lengths while at Killarney Mozzies Sister was a non-runner. 

 A Monday double header sees 8 races at both Roscommon and Killarney with 2 highlights. 

Roscommon 6.25: Irish Stallion Farms EBF 3YO Spring Series Median Auction Race. 

5: Arouet: A promising looking horse who was a good second behind the reopposing Nautical Force on debut at Cork 23 days ago. He made headway from 2 out and despite making no impression in the final 150 yards finished clear of the rest. With improvement expected he can reverse the placings and go one better here.

Killarney 6.38: Boylesports An Riocht Chase (Grade 3)

4: Blood Destiny: A very smart chaser who was last seen finishing a respectable 3rd at Fairyhouse 3 weeks ago. He was 6th approaching halfway improving to take 3rd two out making no impression on the run-in. He has been a Grade 3 winner in his career and can take this.

11/5/25 Leopardstown & Killarney

 Saturday's best came at Cork where Emily Love was 2nd. The 9/2 shot travelled well sitting 2nd 4 out, she made no impression before the last allowing Cameletta Vega to pull away and win by 5 1/2 lengths. Over at Naas Island Hopping was 3rd in a race won by Garden Of Eden who beat Jaliyah by a length. 

 On Sunday we have 8 races at both Leopardstown and Killarney with 3 standing out. 

Leopardstown 2.20: Al Shira'aa Racing Mutamakina Stakes (Group 3)

3: Vespertilio: A useful filly who was last seen finishing a respectable 2nd in a listed race at Cork on her return 35 days ago. She travelled well to lead narrowly from 2 out, she was strongly pressed being passed in the final 100 yards. She goes back up in trip here and can go one better.

Killarney 2.30: MD O'Shea's Tourist Attraction Mares Hurdle. 

4: Mozzies Sister: A useful hurdler who looked good when a creditable 2nd behind Cottesloe Sunshine at Punchestown 10 days ago. She was 5th at the last staying on well on the run-in to take 2nd close to home. She can build on that here and pick up a 4th career win. 

Leopardstown 3.30: Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes (Group 3)

2: Delacroix: An excellent horse who didn't need to be at his best to win the Ballysax Stakes over course and distance on his last outing 42 days ago. He made all the running going clear from a furlong out and easily coming home by 2 1/4 lengths. He tops the shortlist here and should follow up. 

10/5/25 Cork & Naas

 Friday's winner came at Downpatrick where Queenofthelodge tracked the leaders early moving to the front from 2 out. The 4/1 shot was strongly pressed inside the final furlong but kept on well to beat Billie Frechette by 3/4 of a length. Over at Ballinrobe All Told was 13th in a race won by Flying Fortress who beat Wertpol by 1/2 a length. 

 On a busy Saturday there are 8 races at both Cork and Naas with 2 features. 

Cork 2.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle. 

8: Emily Love: A horse with a decent record who was an excellent 2nd on hurdles debut at Fairyhouse 20 days ago. She made progress from 3 out but made no impression after the last taking 2nd in the closing stages. She goes back up in trip here and should go one better. 

Naas 4.20: Darley Irish EBF Naas Oaks Trial Stakes. 

4: Island Hopping: A promising horse who finished a creditable 3rd in the Group 3 Salsabil Stakes at Navan when last seen 2 weeks ago. She tracked the leaders early sitting 3rd at halfway keeping on at one pace. With that under her belt she can pick up a 2nd career win here. 

9/5/25 Ballinrobe & Downpatrick

 The best on a poor Thursday at Tipperary came from Big Island who was 6th in a race won by Inchidaly Copper who beat In The Trenches by a neck. In the other race Linden Arden failed to finish falling 4 out.

 A Friday double header sees 7 races at both Ballinrobe and Downpatrick with 2 main events. 

Ballinrobe 5.35: Brian Forkan Construction Maiden.

1: All Told: A horse who has shown promise on all of his 3 starts and wasn't disgraced when 8th at Dundalk on his last outing 70 days ago. He recovered from a poor start sitting 7th a furlong out keeping on at one pace. He goes up in trip here and can take a big step forward by opening his account. 

Downpatrick 6.32: Download The Tote App Mares Handicap Hurdle. 

3: Queenofthelodge: A lightly-raced horse who returned after 6 months off to finish a very good second at Clonmel 22 days ago. She led early but was 2nd approaching the straight, she challenged from 2 out but made no impression in the closing stages. She should build on that here and can pick up her first career win. 

8/5/25 Tipperary

 The best at Gowran Park on Wednesday came from Jancis who was 2nd. The 9/2 shot made progress from 2 out leading narrowly soon after. She was passed in the final 100 yards by Madam Celeste who won by 1/2 a length. The days other pick Ameerat Jumaira was 7th in a race won by Goodie Two Shoes who beat Fairy Wings by a comfortable 6 lengths.

 We have 7 races at Tipperary on Thursday with 2 highlights. 

5.35: Join Racing TV Now With A Free Month Trial Handicap Chase. 

2: Big Island: A decent horse who returned after 3 months off to finish an excellent second at Limerick 37 days ago. He led for a second time at the 10th keeping on well but being passed close to home going down by a head. Dropping back to 2 miles here should suit and he can pick up a 4th career win. 

6.07: Botanica International Handicap Chase. 

1: Linden Arden: A promising horse who's last win came at Limerick in March. He travelled well from 2 out leading soon after and comfortably coming home by 4 lengths. He was a good 3rd at Fairyhouse when last seen 18 days ago and back in handicap company he can quickly return to winning ways here. 

7/5/25 Gowran Park

 The best on a poor Tuesday at Cork came from Babouche who was 4th in a race won by First Instinct who beat Town And Country by a head while in the Cork Derby Saturn was 8th with Ascending taking the contest beating Satin by a neck.

 Gowran Park hosts Wednesday's action where on an 8 race card 2 stand out. 

5.50: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Vintage Tipple Stakes.

1: Ameerat Jumaira: A useful horse who was last seen finishing a good second behind Bubble Gum in a listed race at Cork 31 days ago. She was 5th at halfway making headway from 1 1/2 out. She travelled well taking 2nd close to home. With that under her belt she can improve and achieve a 5th career win here.

6.20: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Victor McCalmont Memorial Stakes.

1: Jancis: A decent horse who won her first two races including the Group 3 Brownstown Stakes at Leopardstown. She found Group 1 company a little too much last time but dropping back down to listed level here will suit. Despite being off 7 months she can resume winning ways. 

6/5/25 Cork

 The best on Monday came at The Curragh where White Birch was 2nd. The 3/1 shot was 4th at halfway improving into 2nd early in the final furlong. He kept on well but just failed to reach Los Angeles who won by a neck. In the other races Timmy Tuesday was 3rd with the contest going to Topgun Simmy who beat Fancy Girl by 1 1/2 lengths while in the days Group 3 Chantez was 7th with Atsilia winning beating Cercene by 1/2 a length. 

 On Tuesday there are 8 races at Cork with 2 features. 

6.08: Goffs Irish EBF Polonia Stakes.

1: Babouche: A lightly-raced horse who has been a course and distance winner. She was last seen finishing 4th behind Lake Victoria in the Cheveley Park at Newmarket on her final 2-y-o run. She goes back down in class here and with the ground forecast to suit she should be hard to beat.

6.38: Cork Derby. 

4: Saturn: A decent horse who picked up a career best win at Navan 28 days ago. He made headway from 2 out leading soon after, despite being strongly pressed he stayed on well close to home winning by a neck. He goes slightly back down in trip here and has an excellent chance to follow up. 

5/5/25 Down Royal & The Curragh

 Sunday's best at Sligo came from Chester Nimitz who was 2nd. The 2/1 shot tracked the leaders early challenging a furlong out. He went 2nd in the closing stages but couldn't reach the winner Ceo Stealth Mode who won by a comfortable 4 lengths. In the days other race Sacred Oath was 9th with the contest going to Beset who beat Fratas by 1 1/4 lengths. 

 A busy Monday sees 8 races at both Down Royal and The Curragh with 3 main events. 

Down Royal 2.45: Pepsi Max Hurdle. 

2: Timmy Tuesday: A useful hurdler who has been a course winner in his career. He disappointed when 18th at Punchestown just 6 days ago where he was 6th 3 out but a slight mistake soon after ended any challenge. Going back up in trip here will suit and on form he should pick up a 3rd career victory. 

The Curragh 3.35: Coolmore Stud Auguste Rodin Irish EBF Athasi Stakes (Group 3)

7: Chantez: A promising horse who was last seen winning a listed race at Leopardstown back in September. She was 4th approaching halfway travelling well to lead from a furlong out staying on and coming home by 3/4 of a length. Despite being off 7 months she can complete a hat-trick here. 

The Curragh 4.10: Coolmore Stud City Of Troy Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes (Group 2)

6: White Birch: A high-class horse who is a 3-time course and distance winner including this race last year. His latest victory was a career best in the Tattersalls Gold Cup beating Auguste Rodin by 3 lengths. This is his return after 11 months off but despite that he sets the standard here and can retain his crown.

4/5/25 Sligo

 Saturday's winner at Punchestown was Lulamba. The 11/10 favourite disputed the lead from the 5th travelling well and moving to the front before the last. He stayed on strongly beating Poniros by 4 lengths. The days other pick Brighterdaysahead was 3rd in a race won by Jade De Grugy who beat Gala Marceau by an easy 6 1/2 lengths. 

 On Sunday we have 7 races at Sligo with 2 highlights. 

2.10: Tote.ie Median Auction Maiden. 

2: Chester Nimitz: A lightly-raced horse who was last seen finishing a creditable 2nd at Bellewstown 29 days ago. He travelled well leading for a 3rd time a furlong out, he was passed in the closing stages going down by 2 1/4 lengths. He sets a high standard here and can make his sprinting return a winning one.

3.55: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap. 

10: Sacred Oath: A decent horse who's one win so far this year came at Dundalk in January where she made headway to lead from a furlong out keeping on well to win by 1 3/4 lengths. She was a good 4th at Leopardstown last month and can resume winning ways here. 

3/5/25 Punchestown

 The best on a very poor Friday at Punchestown came from Constitution Hill who was 5th.  The 8/13 favourite made headway from 4 out going 3rd soon after, he lost ground from 2 out having no extra. Upfront State Man beat Golden Ace by 4 1/4 lengths. In the other race The Yellow Clay failed to finish falling at the last. 

 The Punchestown festival reaches it’s conclusion on Saturday with 2 final Grade one’s topping the bill.

3.42: SBK Irish EBF Mares Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)

1: Brighterdaysahead: A good horse who after winning a Grade one at Leopardstown in December by an impressive 30 lengths put in a rare below par run when 4th in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham on her last outing in March. That should be discounted and she can quickly resume winning ways here. 

4.50: Ballymore Champion Four Year Old Hurdle (Grade 1)

6: Lulamba: An exciting horse who caught the eye when winning at Ascot in January. He built on that when an excellent 2nd behind the reopposing Poniros in the Triumph Hurdle last time. With more to come this fine prospect can reverse those placings here and pick up a 3rd career win. 

2/5/25 Punchestown

 On another good day at Punchestown both my picks won. In the first Grade 1 Majborough was 2nd early making headway to lead at the 3rd. The 4/11 favourite went clear from 2 out staying on strongly and easily beating Only By Night by 14 lengths. The Stayers Hurdle saw Teahupoo make headway from 2 out leading before the last. The 5/4 favourite kept on well on the run-in comfortably beating Asterion Forlonge by 4 1/4 lengths. 

 It's the penultimate day at Punchestown on Friday where 2 more Grade one's stand out. 

6.05: Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle (Grade 1)

8: The Yellow Clay: An interesting horse who completed a 4-timer when winning the Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle in January. He lost his unbeaten hurdles record when 2nd in the Turners at Cheltenham last time but he wasn't disgraced there only going down by 3/4 of a length. With further progress likely he can quickly return to winning ways here. 

6.40: Boodles Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)

2: Constitution Hill: An excellent hurdler who lost his unbeaten record when falling at the 5th in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, he also fell on his last outing at Aintree in April but both of those can be overlooked and if fully recovered then this outstanding horse is definitely the one to beat here and should pick up an 11th career win.