Linehan can double-up

IT can pay to follow local trainer John Linehan at tonight’s gala sponsored benefit meeting at Curraheen Park, in aid of Newtownshandrum GAA Club.

The Blarney-based handler has bright prospects of recording a double with Droopys Gal and Curryhills Ashty.

The fast-improving Droopys Gal can take the featured Albany Paints 525.

She has made giant strides in recent weeks, winning three of her last four starts, including a 28.71 effort.

Droopys Gal lost no caste in defeat when a four lengths runner-up in 28.60 in Open class last time and this early pacer can shrug off a trap three draw.

Snow Bear has also been in fine form of late, completing a hat-trick in a career best 28.79 a fortnight ago.

Clearly on the upgrade and well drawn on the rails, Snow Bear has to be feared.

Lone wide seed Kewell Star bounced back to form last time, scoring in 29.13, and is another to consider.

Curryhills Ashty can set the ball rolling for Lenihan in the seventh race.

This fellow encountered traffic problems after a mistimed exit when a beaten favourite last time and is better judged on the form that saw him make all in 29.02 on his penultimate start.

The last race, an A2 550, can go to the consistent Lochbo Boss.

In the frame in six of his eight starts, Lochobo Boss should be suited by this step up in trip and a rails draw is another plus.

Meanwhile the promising Castlelyons Bary can land the second semi-final of the Compass Kennels A5 Stakes at Youghal.

Unlucky when second on his debut at Cork in April, the selection set the record straight last week.

Sent off odds-on, Castlelyons Bary never gave his supporters any cause for concern, making all for a clear-cut 29.64 success.

Open to further improvement and ideally drawn on the rails, Castlelyons Bary should take a deal of beating.