Racing Ireland takes places at Leopardstown on Sunday. The Dublin track hosts in an intriguing seven race card which commences at 14:10.
The opening Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden Hurdle is a very strong contest. Some potentially classy horses in the shape of Thunder and Roses, and Operating all line if for the contest. It has hard to split the two so I will take a chance on Boondooma at 16/1. He has some good form along with these conditions and the step up trip could suit him and we will more than likely see the best of him today.
Blackstairmountain has his final start before heading to Japan, in the Ballsbridge Hurdle at 2:40. Mullins’ charge is being aimed at the Nakayama Grand Jump in April and, following his victory at Cork in January, he is likely to be a warm order and be good enough to prevail in this. Former Jewson winner Noble Prince is an interesting contender as he drops in class for his return to hurdles, but he will need to find his best form for this race. While
Forpadydeplasterer looks an excellent each way bet at massive price as he continues his Grand National preparations in the 14-runner contest.
Dylan Ross is the interesting contender in the Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. Novice Chase at 15:40. He was Grade 1-placed here over hurdles as a novice, and there is no denying Dylan Ross has the ability. He has been very consistent over the larger obstacles but the drop in grade will suit. Rupert Lamb is the major danger since coming off a nice win here.
Please Talk is an interesting candidate in the feature race The Carrickmines Handicap Steeplechase at 4:10. Noel Meade’s charge has not seemed to reach his full potential. He gets in here at the bottom of the weights and the better ground is sure to suit him at a big price. Kakagh and Hans Crescent pose major threats.
Traditionally a very strong bumper, the Killiney (Pro/Am) Flat Race closes the card at 17:10. Dermot Wels’s Grecian Tiger will be fancied to take the spoils. Aiden O’Brien has two in runners in the shape of Egyptian Warrior and Shield. Interestingly, it looks as if Shield will be making an appearance in the Champion Bumper so if the Ballydoyle man holds his charge in that regard he is worth taking a chance on.
