17:15 at Kilbeggan on Saturday – Mister Blue Sky
The one I like is Mister Blue Sky. Paul Townend got it wrong in the Galway Hurdle riding Buildmeupbuttercup instead of Aramon and he may have chosen wrong again picking Sayo over Mister Blue Sky. Sayo may find this too sharp a test around a track like Kilbeggan and if Danny Mullins’ mount can build on his Galway run back over hurdles he should have a decent chance now.
19:15 at Kilbeggan on Saturday – Stamp Your Feet
The JP McManus owned Stamp Your Feet made a winning Irish debut at Roscommon when switched from Tom George’s yard to Enda Bolger, beating Roachdale House. He looked to have a bit to spare that day and despite being raised 6lbs by the handicapper he steps up to 2m4f, a trip he has won over in the past. He can go in again for connections.
15.10 at the Curragh on Sunday – St Mark’s Basilica
The Group One Phoenix Stakes over 6f looks a really good renewal. Steel Bull is likely to be sent of favourite for trainer Michael O’Callaghan after winning impressively at Goodwood. I prefer St Mark’s Basilica, one of three Aidan O’Brien runners in the race, who Wayne Lordan has chosen to ride.
He missed the break on his debut and got a little too far back before running on to finish second to the more experienced Coill Avon at this venue late last month. We saw during the week the progress that stablemate Van Gough made on his second run and if St Mark’s Basilica does similar, he will go close.
17:55 at the Curragh on Sunday – Frank Arthur
Frank Arthur ran a really credible race on his first handicap start over course and distance when second to the well-backed Fame and Acclaim last month and can go one better now with that experience under his belt. He was raised 3lb for that effort, but still gets in off a nice racing weight in what is a very competitive race.
Tips for Irish racing this weekend
Saturday
17:15 Kilbeggan – Mister Blue Sky
19:15 Kilbeggan – Stamp Your Feet
Sunday
15.10 Curragh – St Mark’s Basilica
17:55 Curragh – Frank Arthur
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Grab racing previews from the UK, Ireland and the rest of the globe here
- Placing bets is easier than ever with Paddy Power News’ live odds banners
- Horse Racing tips: Jason Weaver’s sweet 7 Saturday picks on ITV Racing
- Horse Racing tips: Mick Fitzgerald’s Saturday 5 to thrive on ITV Racing