Will can cap career-defining year for Ruth

DOLORES Ruth has had a career defining year and she looks to end it on a high at Shelbourne Park this evening with Razldazl Will a clear favourite to win the Comerford Cakes National Puppy Stake.

There seems little doubt that Razldazl Will should improve for a step up in distance in the future, but he can end 2011 in style by out-gunning his rivals in the €15,000 end of season competition.

Of his rivals it’s no surprise that Paradise Martini has been nominated as the main threat by the off-course layers. He actually held off the late charge of Razldazl Will in his semi-final, but he hasn’t been rewarded for that effort.

From a tricky draw in four, Paradise Martini will need to make a flying start if he is to lead those drawn on his inside, which include the fast starting Hanover Laddie. The presence of the Swift Marathon on his immediate outside is also a reason for concern.

Perhaps the best drawn runner in the field is Highview Beauty in one, although she will start as one of the rank outsiders despite catching the eye in her last two outings, when she finished at speed.

After an impressive semi-final run Ruthless Man will also attract support, but one gets the impression that Razldazl Will may have too much ammunition for his rivals.

The semi-finals of the Christmas Oaks will also attract attention. Last week’s quarter finals provided numerous brilliant displays.

All eyes will be on Cabra Millie as she bids to add to her latest 28.23 success in the second semi. For the third week running she must face the hugely talented Priceless Spark, while the presence of last week’s 28.26 winner Menlo Polly adds real spice to an already very tasty contest.

Tyrur Mozzletoff and Calling Spice are likely to dominate the betting in the opening heat, although the former will almost certainly start favourite. Much will depend on whether Tyrur Mozzletoff can match her rival for early dash.

Elsewhere on the card the final of the Christmas Cracker 575 should live up to its name. The likes of Broadstrand Lad, Royal Patrol and Martinstown Snow can be classed amongst some of the fastest in training. Add in the likes of Fluff The Lines, Tyrur Columbo and the progressive Razldazl Dmagio and it could be the race of the night.