The Dublin Racing Festival has become one of the highlights of the Irish National Hunt season and this weekend promises top-class racing across both days. Willie Mullins traditionally has his team primed for this meeting on the road to Cheltenham and once again he has all the major players engaged. Gordon Elliott has in the past taken a more measured approach to the festival, but he has been vocal this year about running some of his leading performers as he makes a bold bid for the trainers’ championship.
Let’s get straight into the action. Below are three horses from each day that catch the eye and look set to play leading roles across what promises to be a fascinating weekend of racing.
Saturday
1.50: Gannon’s City Recovery & Recycling Services Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1)
Narciso Has, trained by Willie Mullins for JP McManus, is likely to be a popular runner following an impressive success over this course and distance at Christmas. He looked a high-class prospect on that occasion, but this looks a strong renewal and there may be value elsewhere. Mange Tout, trained by Gordon Elliott for Robcour, defeated Narciso Has at Fairyhouse in November and arrives here fresh. A previous winner on very soft ground in France, he could have a big say once again.
2.55: Grade 1
Romeo Coolio represents the Gordon Elliott yard and had to work hard to get the better of Irish Panther on his most recent start. Improvement can be expected from that run, though this trip may just test his speed. The Willie Mullins-trained Kargese is of particular interest. Likely to make the running under Paul Townend, she is a course winner with a smart turn of foot, should enjoy the ground conditions and receives a useful weight allowance.
3.30: Paddy Power Irish Gold Cup (Grade 1)
A standout race on the weekend, this year’s renewal features former Cheltenham Gold Cup winners Galopin Des Champs and Iknowthewayyourthinkin, alongside King George third Gaelic Warrior and last season’s Ryanair Chase winner Fact To File. It was also encouraging to see local trainer Noel Meade back in the spotlight recently when Affordale Fury landed the Savills Chase, and he would not be out of place in this company.
Gaelic Warrior, trained by Willie Mullins, is one that stands out. Third to The Jukebox Man on his latest start, he should be well suited by the ground and conditions here, and his partnership with Patrick Mullins has already yielded success. I Am Maximus and Spindleberry are others who could feature prominently.
Day One: PK’s Watchlist
1.50pm: Mange Tout
2.55pm: Kargese
3.30pm: Gaelic Warrior
Sunday
1.40: Grade 1
The opening Grade 1 on day two could see the progressive Final Demand continue his upward trajectory following two impressive chasing performances. The focus here, however, is on the Tattersalls Ireland Novice Hurdle (Grade 1). Ballyfad has progressed with every run this season and, while not flashy at home according to Gordon Elliott, he consistently delivers on the track. Owned by Gigginstown House Stud, he faces stiff opposition in Talk The Talk and King Rasko Grey, but his recent form has been well boosted and he looks a horse with plenty of class.
2.10: Ladbrokes Dublin Steeplechase (Grade 1)
Recent course winner Solness, owned by local connections Brosnan Racing, is likely to be popular in this contest. Marine Nationale, however, is the one of particular interest. An unlucky second to Solness on his last start, a clearer round of jumping could see him turn the tables. A previous winner of the Queen Mother Champion Chase for owner-trainer Barry Connell, confidence has been evident from the yard in recent weeks. Majborough has the ability to make his presence felt if his jumping holds together.
3.30: Timeless Sash Windows Irish Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)
The feature race of the day brings a rematch between two outstanding mares in Lossiemouth and Brighterdaysahead. When they last met, Lossiemouth had just over a length to spare and a stronger pace here may again play to her strengths. Anzadam is likely to ensure an honest gallop and could lead deep into the race, though the finish may once again belong to his stablemate. A fascinating contest to close the weekend.
Day Two: PK’s Watchlist
1.40pm: Ballyfad
2.10pm: Marine Nationale
3.30pm: Lossiemouth
PK Has His Say is an opinion-based racing column for general interest and entertainment only. All views expressed are the personal opinion of the writer and are not intended as betting advice. Gambling involves risk and readers should only ever stake what they can afford to lose.
