September 28 / 16.22 Curragh

16.22

Good To Yielding

Friends Of The Curragh Irish Cesarewitch (Premier Handicap)

  • Prize money: £267768.6
  • 2m 0f 170y
  • 30 runners
RTV
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Friends Of The Curragh Irish Cesarewitch (Premier Handicap)

Runners: 30 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

Form: 930-66

Last run: 16 days

W: 10st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 105

Form & Verdict
English raider's four wins have come on soft-heavy so the more rain that falls the better for him; he hasn't won for almost two years but he's 2lb below his last win and didn't get his ground when midfield in this last year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

7th Mar 2026

Soft

2m 4f 100y

Class 4

13:32 Ayr

Tashkhan

11st 7lb

J: Brian Hughes

T: Brian Ellison

A very useful four-time winner on the Flat, he got off to a winning start over hurdles at Hexham (2m4f, heavy) in December; stayed on well to snatch third up in trip in a Grade 2 at Haydock (3m, good to soft) three weeks ago; holds obvious credentials back down in grade.

2/1

OUR TIP

Form: 2050-1 C

Last run: 89 days

W: 10st 1lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Caused a huge shock at Roscommon on stable debut and seasonal reappearance in July when winning a 1m4f listed heat at 125-1; mark rose by 7lb for that win so is now 14lb above his last winning handicap mark; no impact in this last year off 1lb lower.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

(1)

2nd Nov 2025

Heavy

2m 0f 71y

14:30 Curragh

Chally Chute

9st 9lb

J: Donagh O’Connor

T: Ross O’Sullivan

Is in the form of his career this year for a new yard; won a Roscommon Listed race on seasonal debut and was an unlucky runner-up in the Irish Cesarewitch last time; his new rating of 112 looks debatable but a repeat of his best will make him difficult to beat.

6/4

Form: 5-0500

Last run: 15 days

W: 10st 1lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
One of three for top yard; won a 1m4f handicap at York last season off 93; yet to get going this year and well beaten in the Ebor and Petingo handicaps the last twice; cheekpieces need to transform.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

(22)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

London City

10st 1lb

J: Jack Cleary

T: A P O’Brien

One of three for top yard; won a 1m4f handicap at York last season off 93; yet to get going this year and well beaten in the Ebor and Petingo handicaps the last twice; cheekpieces need to transform.

40/1

2

(4)

13th Sep 2025

Soft

1m 5f 0y

18:05 Leopardstown

London City

9st 13lb

J: Christophe Soumillon

T: A P O’Brien

Two wins include 1m4f York handicap last year; hasn't progressed at four, although close behind Harbour Wind in Group 2 Curragh Cup, most recently down the field in Ebor last month; opposable.

12/1

18th

7

(18)

23rd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

London City

9st 8lb

J: Sean Levey

T: A P O’Brien

3yo season ended with a poor show in June but he'd won a 1m4f handicap here (good) by that stage with what looked a highly encouraging performance for longer distances; may have needed the race in a good 2m handicap this June and never had much chance to get competitive from out the back at 33-1 in a 1m6f Group 2 five weeks ago, but the latter display was up with his best on the figures and gave cause for renewed encouragement.

12/1

Form: 0-6636 C

Last run: 14 days

W: 10st 1lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
Second of three for yard; ran a solid race off 2lb lower in the Ebor at York in August, staying on for a 3l third (0.5l behind Ascending); predictably came up short in the St Leger here on latest but he could bounce back returned to handicap company.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

(11)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Queenstown

10st 1lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: A P O’Brien

Second of three for yard; ran a solid race off 2lb lower in the Ebor at York in August, staying on for a 3l third (0.5l behind Ascending); predictably came up short in the St Leger here on latest but he could bounce back returned to handicap company.

20/1

6th

7

(4)

14th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

1m 6f 0y

16:25 Curragh

Queenstown

9st 10lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: A P O’Brien

Sole win (11 races) was a 2023 maiden; career-best on latest when third in Ebor Handicap (York) but has fallen short at Group level in the past and likely to do so again here.

33/1

3rd

4

(5)

23rd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

Queenstown

9st 8lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: A P O’Brien

Sole win (ten races) was a 2023 maiden; twice second to star stayer Kyprios over 1m6f in spring 2024 and Curragh Group 2 on latest outing was up with his best form, albeit finishing only sixth of seven; last year's 17th in the Ebor and 11th in the Cesarewitch, both off only 3lb higher than today, suggest it is best to turn elsewhere despite his illustrious connections.

12/1

Form: 53-637 C

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 12lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Dual-purpose 8yo in fine form in both codes this year; first past the post in the Galway hurdle but demoted for interference; another solid run when a staying on seventh over 1m5f in the Petingo on latest; this trip might just stretch his stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

(15)

3rd May 2026

Yielding

1m 4f 30y

15:43 Cork

Helvic Dream

9st 10lb

J: Sam Coen

T: Noel Meade

Last year's Galway Hurdle runner-up, a long time since the last of his five Flat wins (enjoyed highlight in the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup in 2021); slipping in the ratings and fit from hurdling.

16/1

17th

5

4th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 0y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Helvic Dream

11st 0lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Noel Meade

9yo was second to Lord Erskine in this last year and later first past the post in the Galway Hurdle (demoted for interference); back from winter break when midfield in County Hurdle last month (close up behind Karbau and Hello Neighbour), tiring from last; entitled to come on for that.

10/1

11th

10

13th Mar 2026

Good

2m 0f 179y

Class 1

14:00 Cheltenham

Helvic Dream

10st 13lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Noel Meade

Dual-purpose 9yo in fine form in Flat/hurdle codes last year, first past the post in the Galway Hurdle (demoted to second behind Ndaawi for interference); respectable efforts on Flat subsequently; first race for five months.

16/1

Form: 11-237

Last run: 121 days

W: 9st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Won twice last year and excellent runs in defeat first two starts this campaign; beaten a neck on handicap debut off 95 at Navan (1m6f, good) and was just 2l behind Kyprios over the same C&D on soft; off since poor listed run at Down Royal in May; could go well.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

6

(1)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Poetic Sound

9st 2lb

J: Colin Keane

T: G M Lyons

Won twice over 1m4f in 2024 and began last season in form of his life over 1m6f at Navan, touched off in handicap and fine third in Listed contest; last month's 1m4f Leopardstown comeback run was encouraging, could well improve enough from that to play a major role here back at 1m6f.

8/1

3rd

1

(1)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 4f 0y

20:30 Leopardstown

Poetic Sound

11st 0lb

J: Nicola Burns

T: G M Lyons

Won twice over this trip in 2024 and began last season in form of his life over 1m6f at Navan, touched off in handicap and and fine third in Listed contest; tried over 2m afterwards to no great effect and below form on heavy ground final start; goes well fresh and top-weight respected.

11/2

6th

3

(10)

21st Oct 2025

Soft

1m 4f 0y

16:25 Curragh

Poetic Sound

12st 0lb

J: Mr J H Williamson

T: G M Lyons

Won twice over this trip last year, excellent runs in defeat first two starts this campaign; beaten a neck on handicap debut off 95 at Navan (1m6f, good) and was just 2l behind Kyprios over the same course and trip on soft; poor run in a Listed race at Down Royal in May; dropped away in the final half-mile of Irish Cesarewitch.

6/1

Form: 21-112

Last run: 36 days

W: 9st 10lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 99

Form & Verdict
Landed the Cork Derby (1m4f, good) in May off 93 and followed up in the Ascot Stakes off 95 (2m4f, gd-fm); runner up in the Ebor on latest off 98; can give another good account off 3lb higher.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

3

(3)

1st May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 7f 209y

Class 1

14:35 Ascot

Ascending

9st 4lb

J: W J Lee

T: Henry De Bromhead

Landed the Cork Derby (1m4f) last May and a Royal Ascot handicap (2m4f) last June, before his excellent second in the Ebor Handicap at York (1m6f) in August; not disgraced on final start but needs a serious advance to mix it with the best of these in today's Group 3.

16/1

7

(24)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Ascending

9st 10lb

J: W J Lee

T: Henry De Bromhead

Landed the Cork Derby (1m4f, good) in May off 93 and followed up in the Ascot Stakes off 95 (2m4f, gd-fm); runner up in the Ebor on latest off 98; can give another good account off 3lb higher.

8/1

2nd

17

(16)

23rd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

Ascending

9st 2lb

J: Seamie Heffernan

T: Henry De Bromhead

Reverting to Flat has proved a huge success, most notably with his 2m4f win in a 20-runner handicap at Royal Ascot (good to firm) latest outing but he also scored over 1m4f the time before and the way he went through the Ascot race is not a disincentive; up 3lb in a stronger race but still of major interest.

12/1

Form: -44825 C

Last run: 37 days

W: 9st 9lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 107

Form & Verdict
Third of three for yard and Lordan rides; not beaten far behind Carmers in the Queens Vase at Royal Ascot in June; good second behind Al Riffa in the Curragh Cup (1m6f, good) on penultimate; weakened over 2m latest; stamina a query on handicap debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(10)

19th Oct 2025

Yielding

1m 2f 0y

15:26 Leopardstown

Shackleton

9st 3lb

J: Declan McDonogh

T: A P O’Brien

Hasn't added to Currah 2yo maiden win but some good efforts in smart company, notably Queens Vase fourth and second behind Al Riffa in Group 2 Curragh Cup (1m6f, good); stamina test of 2m1f Irish Cesarewitch seemed beyond him last time and now takes a marked drop in trip.

9/1

8

(26)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Shackleton

9st 9lb

J: Wayne Lordan

T: A P O’Brien

Third of three for yard and Lordan rides; not beaten far behind Carmers in the Queens Vase at Royal Ascot in June; good second behind Al Riffa in the Curragh Cup (1m6f, good) on penultimate; weakened over 2m latest; stamina a query on handicap debut.

14/1

5th

6

(2)

22nd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

2m 0f 56y

Class 1

14:25 York

Shackleton

8st 8lb

J: Wayne Lordan

T: A P O’Brien

Sole win (eight races) remains a 2yo maiden; Group assignments all five starts since, his most competitive displays when a close, front-running fourth in Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot and second of five in another 1m6f Group 2 at the Curragh last time; may well stay 2m but had no answer to the Curragh winner and needs big improvement from today's new trip and/or first-time headgear.

15/2

Form: 4-0533 BF

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 8lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard; fine efforts in staying handicaps at Ascot (1m6f, gd-fm), Goodwood (1m6f, gd-sft) and Leopardstown (1m5f, gd-yld) on last three starts; this step up in trip needs to eke out a bit more if he is to get his head in front.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9

(12)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Aeronautic

9st 8lb

J: Wayne Hassett

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of seven for yard; fine efforts in staying handicaps at Ascot (1m6f, gd-fm), Goodwood (1m6f, gd-sft) and Leopardstown (1m5f, gd-yld) on last three starts; this step up in trip needs to eke out a bit more if he is to get his head in front.

16/1

5

(10)

13th Sep 2025

Soft

1m 5f 0y

18:05 Leopardstown

Aeronautic

9st 6lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Won over C&D last summer, solid runs over same trip latest two runs this summer in big handicaps at Ascot and Goodwood, despite racing keenly; contender if settling better.

9/1

24

(4)

23rd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

Aeronautic

9st 0lb

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Best form came off this mark over 1m6f at Royal Ascot (good to firm) and Goodwood (good to soft) in only his second and third handicaps; close third in the latter three weeks ago, leading before halfway, and may be able to build on that; reserve.

16/1

Form: 1-6004 CD

Last run: 62 days

W: 9st 8lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Dual-purpose sort is one of seven for yard; won a Group 3 over C&D (yielding) last November; back to form with a fine run over 2m1f at Galway (yielding) on latest; wears cheekpieces and a tongue tie for the first time; chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

(4)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Dawn Rising

9st 9lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

No wins last season but strong form in defeat in big staying handicaps; fourth in the amateur handicap at Galway, fifth in the Irish Cesarewitch and signed off with a fine second in the Cesarewitch; recent run here was over an inadequate trip, more expected of here and seemingly McMonagle's pick.

10/1

12th

1

(7)

23rd May 2026

Good To Yielding

1m 2f 0y

14:30 Curragh

Dawn Rising

10st 1lb

J: J M Sheridan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

No wins last season but strong form in defeat in big staying handicaps; fourth in the amateur handicap at Galway, fifth in the Irish Cesarewitch and signed off with a fine second in the Cesarewitch; runs over an inadequate trip here on second start of the season.

16/1

8th

1

(3)

30th Mar 2026

Heavy

1m 6f 0y

15:18 Navan

Dawn Rising

10st 2lb

J: Gary Halpin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

No wins last season but ran some excellent races in defeat; finished fourth in the QR handicap at Galway, fifth in the Irish Cesarewitch and then signed off with a fine second in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket; course winner over hurdles but might just need this run.

6/1

Form: 985/0- BF

Last run: 351 days

W: 9st 7lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Dual-purpose gelding is one of six for yard; out of form over hurdles when last seen in April and well beaten in the English Cesarewitch on last Flat start; good claimer booked but others preferred.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

30th Sep 2022

Good

2m 0f 0y

15:17 Gowran Park

Sea Of Sands

11st 12lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: M E Keoghan

in touch with leaders, headway on outer after 3 out, led and ridden from 2 out, kept on well run-in, always doing enough, finished lame (jockey said gelding finished lame)

12/1

50/1

Form: 7-4160 C

Last run: 62 days

W: 9st 6lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Veteran races mostly on the Flat these days and he showed he retained plenty of ability when winning at Gowran in April; he ran better than the results suggest the last twice and he was beaten 0.5l in this in 2023 off 8lb higher; cheekpieces replace visor; lively outsider.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 3f 58y

14:30 Punchestown

Falcon Eight

11st 6lb

J: Hugh Horgan

T: D K Weld

Chester Cup winner in 2021, also a 2m Curragh Group 3 winner in 2023; seven Flat wins in all; at the veteran stage now; four seasons since his only hurdles success.

20/1

6th

5

(6)

3rd Apr 2026

Soft

1m 6f 0y

17:27 Curragh

Falcon Eight

9st 5lb

J: Chris Hayes

T: D K Weld

Veteran who got his seventh Flat win at Gowran last April (1m6f, yielding); hasn't counted in four handicaps since and finished last of the 20 runners at Naas when last seen in October; others preferred.

25/1

5

(9)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Falcon Eight

9st 4lb

J: Leigh Roche

T: D K Weld

Veteran who got his seventh Flat win at Gowran in April (1m6f, yielding); hasn't counted in three handicap runs since and was well behind in the Irish Cesarewitch latest, although reportedly struck into; others preferred.

40/1

Form: 221-10 C

Last run: 36 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard; won the Ebor Trial here in June (1m6f, good) off 87; raised 8lb and came up short in the Ebor at York on latest; handicapper might just have him where he wants him for now.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

(23)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Mr Percy

9st 6lb

J: Hugh Horgan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of seven for yard; won the Ebor Trial here in June (1m6f, good) off 87; raised 8lb and came up short in the Ebor at York on latest; handicapper might just have him where he wants him for now.

20/1

16th

22

(23)

23rd Aug 2025

Good To Firm

1m 5f 188y

Class 2

15:35 York

Mr Percy

9st 1lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Unraced on firmer than good; wore cheekpieces on last three starts; won a 1m6f maiden at Gowran Park last September, two hurdle races last jumps season (including a 2m4f Grade 2 novice in April) and 1m6f handicap at the Curragh this June; well beaten in two major handicap hurdles, including at Galway three weeks ago, but he's on an upward curve with those other results.

16/1

7

31st Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 11y

16:30 Galway

Mr Percy

11st 2lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Won a 1m6f Gowran maiden by 7l last September and scored again in a 1m6f handicap at the Curragh in June; hurdling in between, won a 2m4f Grade 2 Novice at Fairyhouse in April; might prefer further, but a strong-run 2m could suit.

8/1

Form: 644-02

Last run: 103 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard and the stable jockey rides; dual-purpose; pulled up when favourite in the Galway Plate on latest; neck second behind Ascending on last Flat start in the Ascot Stakes and 2lb better off with that rival now; blinkers replace cheekpieces; big chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

2nd Nov 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 0y

14:45 Cork

Nurburgring

11st 0lb

J: Richard Deegan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual-purpose Flat, hurdles and chase winner; rated 144 over fences but just one win from six chase starts; pulled up on last chase start in the Galway Plate when the 6-1 favourite; again below best when beaten 24l back on the Flat latest; capable but others arrive in better form.

7/2

4th

3

2nd Nov 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 0y

14:45 Cork

Nurburgring

11st 0lb

J: Richard Deegan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual-purpose Flat, hurdles and chase winner; rated 144 over fences but just one win from six chase starts; pulled up on last chase start in the Galway Plate when the 6-1 favourite; again below best when beaten 24l back on the Flat latest; capable but others arrive in better form.

7/2

14

(15)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Nurburgring

9st 6lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of seven for yard and the stable jockey rides; dual-purpose; pulled up when favourite in the Galway Plate on latest; neck second behind Ascending on last Flat start in the Ascot Stakes and 2lb better off with that rival now; blinkers replace cheekpieces; big chance.

12/1

Form: 71-300

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 5lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard; closely matched with stablemate Nurburgring and Ascending on Ascot Stakes running; below par twice since but ran better than the bare result at Leopardstown latest when hampered early; dangerous to dismiss.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

(5)

3rd May 2026

Yielding

1m 4f 30y

15:43 Cork

Comfort Zone

9st 7lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Three-time hurdle winner went close in 2m4f Ascot Stakes last June; finished well when close third in 2m Naas handicap in October; this trip is on the short side.

12/1

14th

6

(6)

3rd Apr 2026

Soft

1m 2f 0y

16:17 Curragh

Comfort Zone

9st 8lb

J: Gary Halpin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Third runner for yard; three-time hurdle winner went close in 2m4f Ascot Stakes off 93 last June; stayed on for midfield finish in Irish Cesarewitch here in September; finished well when close third in 2m Naas handicap in October; this trip is on the short side.

11/1

4

(3)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Comfort Zone

9st 4lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Last year's winner from 8lb lower went close in the Ascot Stakes off 93 in June (2m4f, good to firm); ran better than his finishing position suggested in the Petingo premier handicap when he was interfered with at the start; stayed on in the Irish Cesarewitch last time but was never near enough to challenge; can go well with a clear run.

18/1

Form: 164/01 D

Last run: 62 days

W: 9st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Plundered a nice pot at Galway (2m1f, yielding) when last seen in July; got hit with a 10lb hike for that so this 9yo will need to produce a career best to follow up but that's not impossible given who trains him; respected.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(23)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Filey Bay

9st 2lb

J: Gary Carroll

T: Emmet Mullins

One of two for trainer; dual-hurdles winner got his second Flat win at Galway in July when an easy winner of an amateur contest (2m1f, yielding); struggled off 10lb higher in the Irish Cesarewitch last time and drops 2lb now.

18/1

16

(6)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Filey Bay

9st 5lb

J: Rory Mulligan

T: Emmet Mullins

Plundered a nice pot at Galway (2m1f, yielding) when last seen in July; got hit with a 10lb hike for that so this 9yo will need to produce a career best to follow up but that's not impossible given who trains him; respected.

17/2

17

(3)

28th Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Filey Bay

11st 0lb

J: Mr Alan O’Sullivan

T: Emmet Mullins

142-rated hurdler has run only five times on the Flat; odds-on winner of a Tramore maiden on good ground in August 2023, close-up fourth on handicap debut in the 2023 Naas November Handicap; did not appear again until finishing in mid-division at the Curragh last month.

16/1

Form: 3613-0 BF

Last run: 116 days

W: 9st 4lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Lightly raced dual-purpose mare; narrowly denied in Grade 2 mares' novice at Cheltenham; close up in third in this last year off 88 and just 5lb higher now; lacks a run but has won when fresh before; shortlisted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

11

13th Mar 2026

Good

2m 0f 179y

Class 1

14:00 Cheltenham

Sixandahalf

10st 11lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Gavin Cromwell

Smart mare who was second in the Dawn Run novices' race over C&D at this meeting last year; ran close to her best when fourth of five to Wodhooh in Leopardstown Grade 2 (2m4f, good to yielding) over Christmas; freshened up since, ahead of this first attempt in a handicap hurdle.

12/1

2nd

5

24th Oct 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 1f 112y

14:35 Sligo

Sixandahalf

11st 5lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Smart mare has won a bumper, maiden hurdle and twice on the Flat; just denied in the Grade 2 Mares' novice at Cheltenham before running below that level at Punchestown; disappointing on the Flat twice since but is the one to beat if back to her best in this sphere.

13/8

17

(7)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Sixandahalf

9st 4lb

J: Robert Whearty

T: Gavin Cromwell

Lightly raced dual-purpose mare; narrowly denied in Grade 2 mares' novice at Cheltenham; close up in third in this last year off 88 and just 5lb higher now; lacks a run but has won when fresh before; shortlisted.

9/1

Form: 22-311

Last run: 113 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard; dual-purpose; on a hat-trick after wins off 78 at Chester (12.5f, good) and 83 at Epsom (1m4f, good) for Josh & Gary Moore; sold for 100,000gns and joined Joseph O'Brien; career high mark now and stamina to prove at this trip, chance if he stays.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

11

30th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 100y

14:41 Listowel

Small Fry

11st 12lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Five Flat wins in UK and ran respectably in two autumn Flat starts for this yard after 100,000gns purchase; previous efforts over hurdles were modest but there was promise in his run at Down Royal (2m2f, good) earlier this month when staying on for fourth; entitled to improve over that return; contender.

9/4

4th

6

4th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 88y

13:35 Down Royal

Small Fry

11st 12lb

J: Hugh Horgan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Five Flat wins in UK and ran respectably both starts for this yard last autumn after 100,000gns purchase; just modest form both hurdle runs in UK, but could do better now that he is more mature; check for market strength.

4/1

19 (32)
Sirius

20/1

Form: 5/014- D BF

Last run: 422 days

W: 9st 2lb

6 yo Mare

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
One of six for yard; shock 50-1 winner of the Q.R. handicap at Galway (2m1f, yielding) in 2024 off 9lb lower; off since 6l fourth over 1m4f (soft) there three days later; this looks a big ask after such a long layoff.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

14

(4)

21st Oct 2025

Soft

1m 4f 0y

16:25 Curragh

Sirius

11st 2lb

J: Mr David Dunsdon

T: W P Mullins

Two middle-distance wins in France; had this rider aboard for 50-1 win in the big amateur handicap at Galway (2m1f, yielding) in 2024; should be sharper now following a mid-field run in the Irish Cesarewitch; this trip probably short of optimum/

10/1

19

(32)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Sirius

9st 2lb

J: Ben Coen

T: W P Mullins

One of six for yard; shock 50-1 winner of the Q.R. handicap at Galway (2m1f, yielding) in 2024 off 9lb lower; off since 6l fourth over 1m4f (soft) there three days later; this looks a big ask after such a long layoff.

20/1

4th

6

(1)

2nd Aug 2024

Yielding

1m 4f 0y

18:35 Galway

Sirius

8st 12lb

J: Shane Foley

T: W P Mullins

prominent

6/1

Form: 84-203

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
One of six for yard; runner up over C&D (good) in June off 89; never got into the race at Galway in July; beaten 2l when slightly impeded in the Petingo at Leopardstown (1m5f, gd-yld) on latest; go well again off 1lb higher though wouldn't want too much rain.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

(7)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Too Bossy For Us

8st 12lb

J: Shane Foley

T: W P Mullins

Useful on the Flat, although sole win came back in 2024, narrowly beaten here over 2m last summer; equally talented hurdler, but some stiff tasks of late; market likely informative back on the Flat.

8/1

6th

9

28th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 132y

16:15 Punchestown

Too Bossy For Us

11st 12lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

One of three for yard; Useful on the Flat; off the mark over hurdles in a C&D maiden in February (sft-hvy); beaten 11.5l when midfield in the Supreme at Cheltenham (when Townend rode) and raced keenly before pulled up in the Fairyhouse Grade 2 won by Koktail Brut latest; overlooked by Townend here.

20/1

8

5th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 0y

14:40 Fairyhouse

Too Bossy For Us

11st 4lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Useful Flat handicapper; finished in mid-field in the 2025 Triumph on hurdling debut; easy winner of a Punchestown maiden in January; second-best of a disappointing Irish contingent when sixth in the Supreme Novices; giving him a slight edge over Koktail Brut.

11/2

Form: 294713

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 83

Form & Verdict
Both wins have come on the AW at 1m4f and 10.5f but he proved his effectiveness on turf and his stamina when running on well for a 1l third in a 2m heritage handicap at Chester 17 days ago; 5lb higher now but could go well at a nice price.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

9

(11)

3rd Jun 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:20 Curragh

Tribal Star

8st 10lb

J: Reese Holohan

T: Adrian McGuinness

Seen mostly on AW, including fourth of 20 in the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle (2m) last June; running well on AW this year and good effort back on turf at Chester last month, only fading late on over 2m3f; upped in grade here and could go well with rider's claim.

10/1

3rd

3

(4)

8th May 2026

Good

2m 2f 140y

Class 2

16:10 Chester

Tribal Star

9st 10lb

J: Adam Caffrey

T: Adrian McGuinness

Seen mostly on AW, including fourth of 20 in the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle (2m) last June; running well on AW this year and although he's 0-6 on turf, that includes a close third here (2m, good to soft) in September; each-way player.

12/1

4th

7

(7)

3rd Apr 2026

Standard

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

16:42 Newcastle (AW)

Tribal Star

9st 1lb

J: Adam Caffrey

T: Adrian McGuinness

Runner-up in this last year and also ran well over C&D when fourth of 20 in the Northumberland Plate last June; he's been running pretty well at Dundalk this year and could build on those efforts now back here.

12/1

Form: 541121

Last run: 15 days

W: 9st 0lb

3 yo Colt

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Unexposed 3yo has won three of his last four, all at Leopardstown at 1m5f; had a head to spare when scoring on his handicap debut in the Petingo off 99 and 6lb higher now; could be more to come over this longer trip but rain would dampen enthusiasm.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

(3)

15th May 2026

Good

1m 6f 0y

19:22 Leopardstown

Happy Pharoah

9st 5lb

J: Paddy Harnett

T: Donnacha Aidan O’Brien

Strong form at this venue last season, winning three times here, including a C&D Listed race and a 1m5f premier handicap; never a factor in the Irish Cesarewitch; probably unsuited by very soft ground on his seasonal debut at the Curragh six weeks ago.

14/1

7th

2

(3)

3rd Apr 2026

Soft

1m 6f 0y

17:27 Curragh

Happy Pharoah

9st 12lb

J: Paddy Harnett

T: Donnacha Aidan O’Brien

Already a Leopardstown specialist, winning three times there last season over 1m5f, including a premier handicap in September; never a factor in the Irish Cesarewitch here when last seen; would want drying ground to be considered; gelded.

13/2

Form: 2/00-6

Last run: 62 days

W: 8st 13lb

9 yo Horse

OR: 88

Form & Verdict
One of six for yard; dual-purpose sort has won 14 races at up to 1m7f across Europe; won a Sligo maiden hurdle on debut for Willie Mullins but has failed to trouble the judge in either code in five starts since; might have needed his latest run when sixth in the Q.R. handicap at Galway; can't discount.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

24

(3)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Plontier

8st 13lb

J: Seamie Heffernan

T: W P Mullins

One of six for yard; dual-purpose sort has won 14 races at up to 1m7f across Europe; won a Sligo maiden hurdle on debut for Willie Mullins but has failed to trouble the judge in either code in five starts since; might have needed his latest run when sixth in the Q.R. handicap at Galway; can't discount.

28/1

11

(10)

28th Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Plontier

11st 4lb

J: Miss J Townend

T: W P Mullins

Winner of 14 Flat races on the continent; very easy winner of 2m5f Sligo maiden hurdle on his stable debut last August; well held twice afterwards in good staying handicaps on Flat; limitations exposed in high-class novice hurdles.

16/1

5th

3

5th Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 0y

13:55 Naas

Plontier

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Winner of 14 Flat races on the continent; very easy winner of 2m5f Sligo maiden hurdle on his stable debut last August; well held twice afterwards in good staying handicaps on Flat; not a bad run when outsider of the stable's four runners in the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse; similar status here.

33/1

Form: 4508-1 CD

Last run: 75 days

W: 8st 12lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 87

Form & Verdict
Admirable veteran in the form of his life; excellent run in a listed handicap hurdle at Listowel on Friday; won last start on the Flat at Killarney (2m1f, yld-sft); 8lb higher now and might find things tough off this mark if turned out quickly.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

6

28th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 132y

15:40 Punchestown

Lord Erskine

10st 7lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: H Rogers

Admirable dual-purpose veteran is a winner of 14 races; 6-34 over hurdles but time may be catching up with him based on the evidence of his last two runs and was well beaten in this in 2024 off 2lb lower.

40/1

10th

7

4th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 0y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Lord Erskine

10st 11lb

J: Patrick M O’Brien

T: H Rogers

Fine dual-purpose performer won this last year (beating Helvic Dream) off 9lb lower; won twice on Flat afterwards, back from a break when well held back over hurdles at DRF in February; 13yo probably needs a career-best over hurdles to follow up here.

16/1

11th

6

1st Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 0f 0y

15:52 Leopardstown

Lord Erskine

11st 1lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: H Rogers

Fine dual-purpose performer is a credit to himself and his stable; won this two years ago but disappointing last year; however, was in good form over the summer and has a chance again.

14/1

40/1

Form: 2-0448 C

Last run: 62 days

W: 8st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 87

Form & Verdict
Dual-purpose; ran well here over 1m4f (good) in June when a 1l fourth off 86; not disgraced in the Q.R. handicap at Galway in July; beaten favourite over hurdles at Killarney latest; has run well at this venue more than once and he could outrun his likely odds.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

11

25th May 2026

Good

2m 6f 100y

17:35 Ballinrobe

Zoffman

11st 0lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Noel Meade

Dual-purpose; won a Naas maiden hurdle (2m, gd-yld) in April 2025; has come up short in handicap hurdles since and just okay runs on the Flat on last two starts; stamina to prove for this trip and others look more convincing.

14/1

8th

17

(18)

3rd May 2026

Yielding

1m 4f 30y

15:43 Cork

Zoffman

8st 8lb

J: Chris Hayes

T: Noel Meade

Dual-purpose 7yo whose losing run on the Flat stretches back to October 2022; hard to be confident against that background; yard in form.

16/1

6th

6

(7)

9th Apr 2026

Soft

1m 4f 0y

19:45 Gowran Park

Zoffman

9st 5lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Noel Meade

Dual-purpose 7yo whose losing run on the Flat stretches back to October 2022; absent since down the field in Leopardstown premier handicap in October; okay mark but probably wants a bit better ground.

7/1

Form: 10-402

Last run: 15 days

W: 8st 11lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 86

Form & Verdict
English raider has won three of his 10 starts on turf; best recent form has come on testing ground; beaten 2.25 off this mark in a class 4 handicap at Musselburgh latest (2m2f, gd-sft); needs the heavens to open.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

6

(10)

31st May 2026

Good

2m 0f 13y

Class 3

18:15 Thirsk

Minstrel Knight

9st 7lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Edward Bethell

Ran creditably for minor honours in two (1m5f/2m2f) of his four starts in last year's Flat campaign and won novice hurdles in December and January when last seen; however, although he won on good ground two years ago, his record since has been dominated by achievements on softer.

10/1

1st

3

23rd Jan 2026

Good To Soft

2m 0f 128y

Class 3

13:45 Doncaster

Minstrel Knight

11st 8lb

J: Brian Hughes

T: Edward Bethell

Useful Flat performer who got off the mark over hurdles at the third attempt at Wetherby (2m, soft) four weeks ago; he's open to further improvement in this code and could have a big part to play under a penalty.

7/1

28

(33)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Minstrel Knight

8st 11lb

J: Andrew Slattery

T: Edward Bethell

English raider has won three of his 10 starts on turf; best recent form has come on testing ground; beaten 2.25 off this mark in a class 4 handicap at Musselburgh latest (2m2f, gd-sft); needs the heavens to open.

22/1

Form: 5/6024

Last run: 37 days

W: 8st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 85

Form & Verdict
Fine run when second off this mark in the Q.R handicap at Galway on penultimate; stayed on well over 14.5f at Killarney on latest; easy ground fine and he could go well at a big price.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(2)

27th Oct 2025

Heavy

1m 3f 180y

15:50 Galway

Mon Coeur

9st 6lb

J: Gary Carroll

T: Joseph G Murphy

Good record at this venue, one win and two seconds from three visits; it could pay to overlook his most recent runs, worth considering.

12/1

7

(2)

27th Oct 2025

Heavy

1m 3f 180y

15:50 Galway

Mon Coeur

9st 6lb

J: Gary Carroll

T: Joseph G Murphy

Good record at this venue, one win and two seconds from three visits; it could pay to overlook his most recent runs, worth considering.

12/1

19

(4)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Mon Coeur

8st 7lb

J: Wayne Hassett

T: Joseph G Murphy

Bumper winner who got his sole Flat win at the Galway festival two years ago; fine run back at Galway this year when second of 20 (2m1f, yielding); not a bad run at Killarney following that when behind Ragmans Corner and Pinot Gris but was well beaten behind a lot of these in the Irish Cesarewitch last time; needs more.

33/1

Form: 20/6-1

Last run: 43 days

W: 8st 10lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 78

Form & Verdict
One of seven for yard; won the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse last December; returned to the Flat with a 0.75l win at Tramore (12.5f, gd-yld) last month; 7lb higher here and this is a much tougher race but this 6yo can't be discounted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16

(20)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Tounsivator

8st 10lb

J: Nicola Burns

T: W P Mullins

Last year's Royal Bond winner returned to the Flat to get third win in this sphere at Tramore in August (1m4f, good to yielding); midfield finish in the Irish Cesarewitch last time; one of two for trainer, but Sorrentino looks the pick of them.

18/1

30

(20)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Tounsivator

8st 10lb

J: Shane Foley

T: W P Mullins

One of seven for yard; won the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse last December; returned to the Flat with a 0.75l win at Tramore (12.5f, gd-yld) last month; 7lb higher here and this is a much tougher race but this 6yo can't be discounted.

9/1

3

(10)

16th Aug 2025

Yielding

1m 4f 0y

19:02 Tramore

Tounsivator

10st 2lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: W P Mullins

Twice a winner over mid-distances in France before joining Willie Mullins and very capable hurdler (rated 139), winning Grade 2 novice, and most recently good fourth of 19 in Galway Hurdle; potentially thrown in here on Flat return.

Evs

Form: /1496-

Last run: 401 days

W: 8st 9lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 84

Form & Verdict
First reserve; dual-purpose gelding hasn't run on the Flat for over 400 days; out of sorts in two runs over fences since winning a Limerick beginners' chase in May; stamina to prove in first-time blinkers.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

4

5th Apr 2026

Good

1m 7f 195y

Class 2

16:05 Plumpton

Intellotto

11st 11lb

J: Robbie David

T: Daisy Hitchins

Flat and jumps winner for Joseph O'Brien; it's not been an easy start for current yard, finishing last in the Grade 2 Kingwell (50-1) and then well down the field when 100-1 for the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham; has something to prove all of a sudden.

100/1

19th

12

13th Mar 2026

Good

2m 4f 56y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Intellotto

11st 6lb

J: Robbie David

T: Daisy Hitchins

Flat and jumps winner for Joseph O'Brien; ran according to market expectations (rank outsider of four) in the Kingwell Hurdle on return from layoff and debut for new stable; drops back in class but needs to prove he's still capable of reproducing best Irish form.

66/1

4th

3

14th Feb 2026

Heavy

1m 7f 50y

Class 1

13:35 Wincanton

Intellotto

11st 4lb

J: Robbie David

T: Daisy Hitchins

Flat, chase and dual hurdle winner for Joseph O'Brien but he was out of sorts under both codes in his final two runs in Ireland; now returns to hurdling for new yard and this is a daunting task after 139 days off; blinkers worn last time are removed.

33/1

Form: 3217-3 C

Last run: 46 days

W: 8st 7lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 82

Form & Verdict
Second reserve; in good form, finishing a 2l third to Fleetwood on last start on the Flat at Gowran (12.5f, good) and then beaten 2.75l in a listed handicap hurdle at Listowel three days ago; this test might stretch his stamina.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

10

(17)

8th May 2026

Good

2m 2f 140y

Class 2

15:05 Chester

Puturhandstogether

8st 11lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of three for Joseph O'Brien; won 4yo handicap hurdle at 2025 Cheltenham Festival and also took a huge prize for last September's Irish Cesarewitch on Flat at the Curragh (2m1f, yielding); underwhelming in his three handicap hurdles in November-April, which is a concern, as is today's widest stall, but his Curragh win (bursting clear 1f out) was delivered with considerably more authority than the winning margin suggests; respected.

9/1

13th

3

4th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 0y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Puturhandstogether

11st 5lb

J: Aidan Kelly

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Last season's Fred Winter winner at Cheltenham never threatened on return there last month in 2m5f Coral Cup; previously hampered at least twice when well held behind Zillow over today's C&D; Walsh prefers Davy Crockett.

16/1

16th

8

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Puturhandstogether

11st 5lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

It was never in doubt once his jockey pressed the button in last season's Fred Winter at this meeting (2m, good to soft) and much the same when he landed a huge pot in the Irish Cesarewitch on Flat (2m1f) in September; whether he's on a good mark is an issue but he may have found 2m at Listowel sharper than ideal when runner-up in September and this marked step up in trip is an interesting move; big-race performer who has to be given a close look.

11/1

Non-runners

Shoda, Highwind, Light As Air

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Comfort Zone

TOPSPEED:

Aeronautic

POSTDATA:

Mon Coeur

RP RATINGS (IRE):

Dawn Rising

The Irish Sun:

Comfort Zone