Moiqen looks a solid option
Washington Irving is currently fifth favourite for the Epsom Derby at around 14-1 and will have to produce an impressive display to justify such a lofty position.
He is something of a talking horse, but there is no evidence thus far that the son of Montjeu is anything special. Indeed, he was decidedly disappointing on his reappearance when beaten a short head by Unwritten Rule on this track.
We know from experience, however, that Aidan O’Brien’s horses can often find a lot of improvement as the season progresses and Washignton Iriving is very lightly raced.
It is more than possible he will step well up on previous efforts, but, until we know differently, Moiqen looks a more solid option.
Unlike Washington Irving, who comes into the contest a maiden, the selection has already won two races. As well as that there was plenty to like about the way he buckled down when beating subsequent easy Gowran Park winner, Hebridean, in the Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown last time.
John Oxx’s once-raced Katiyra gets the vote in the Derrinstown Stud 1000 Guineas Trial. Reportedly highly regarded, she is near the head of the Epsom Oaks market at the moment.
The daughter of Peintre Celebre made a big impression on her sole outing, cruising to victory at Leopardstown in August.
Dermot Weld’s Theocritus is fancied to step up on his initial outing, at Naas last month, in the Carrickmines Maiden.
His sixth behind Charlotte Bronte then was no more than a promising start, but he was slowly away and an extra three furlongs in trip now should see him in a better light.
Feature event at Killarney tomorrow is the valuable Murphys’ Irish Stout Handicap Hurdle, which is fiercely competitive.
Northern Alliance, who appeared a trifle unlucky when beaten into second by Here Comes Sally at Punchestown, is the hopeful choice.
The nap falls on Charles Byrnes’ Bodalboy in the Bumper. He stuck to his task in good style when beaten three parts of a length by Gwens Spirit aat Gowran Park and should again go close.
At Downpatrick this afternoon, Charlie Swan can enjoy a welcome turn with Rory’s Pleasure in the Anglo Printers’ Beginners Chase.
The seven-year-old, travelling nicely when falling three out in the contest won by Offaly at Fairyhouse, is no flying machine, but is capable of landing this moderate heat.
Bidalia, absent since beating Siege Of Ennis at Sligo in October, is difficult enough to oppose in the Heart Of Down Race.
