Rely on Ruso in International

A HUGE crowd looks certain to pour through the stiles at Dundalk tomorrow night for one of the most anticipated races of the year, the 2009 Boylesports Dundalk International.

The cream of both Irish and English canine talent will clash in what promises to be an epic.

Not only are the Irish and English Derby winners in the field, but the line up can also boast a Ladbrokes 600 and a Sporting Press Irish Oaks winner, while the likely favourite, Ballymac Ruso) has yet to win any of the above.

Many believe that Shelbourne Aston is the main threat to Ballymac Ruso and it is easy to see why. From a favourable draw in three, he could turn in a handy position and with the galloping nature of the Dundalk circuit certain to suit his style of running, Aston could get very close at the finish.

Another with outstanding claims is Oaks winner Skywalker Queen. She too packs a big finish, but as she displayed when claiming the Oaks a fortnight ago she can also go up fast but much will depend on how she handles her draw in the stripes.

English Derby winner Kinda Ready always looked the type that would appreciate 550yds and a galloping circuit, but it’s worth remembering that he was a rank outsider in the final of the English Derby. Had it not been for a huge portion of luck at the opening turn he would not have won.

Cash Dream proved that he is always dangerous in these one-off races when claiming the Lynch Family Race of Champions at Tralee in the past fortnight, but he too will need to reproduce his very best. Accordello is not without a chance having reached a Puppy Derby decider last year and he will be suited by the circuit.

Ballymac Ruso remains the choice. He possesses both fine early speed and plenty of stamina and should he make one of his better starts, he would almost certainly lead his rivals into the back straight. From there it is difficult to see him getting caught.

Dundalk International: Cashmans bet - 9/4 Ballymac Ruso, 11/4 Shelbourne Aston, 7/2 Skywalker Queen, 6 Cash Dream, 7 Kinda Ready, Accordello.

At Curraheen Park tonight the progressive Lochbo Candy can land the opening semi-final of the O’Coileain’s Bar A2 550 Sweepstake.

The selection shrugged off a three months lay-off to card an impressive 30.28 last week. Open to further improvement, Lochbo Candy can make light of a trap three draw.