Big two on course for National service

SUNDAY’S Bank Of Scotland (Ire) National Stakes at the Curragh is firmly on course to be one of the races of the season, with New Approach and Rio De La Plata both yesterday confirmed on target for the Group One showpiece.

New Approach, unbeaten in three and heading the betting with some firms for next year’s Stan James 2000 Guineas, had an alternative option in today’s Parknasilla Hotels Goffs Million.

Sheikh Mohammed recently purchased a half-share in New Approach, while Rio De La Plata was supplemented for the race by the Godolphin team this week, although his participation had hinged on him swerving the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster.