Dougal looks primed to strike
It has been a case of steady improvement on the part of the three-year-old, producing his best performance at Leopardstown on his latest appearance.
The selection arrived into the straight absolutely cantering and looking sure to score. But he was eventually outbattled and outstayed by John Oxx’s well-backed favourite, Shelford, and there were three and a quarter lengths between them at the line.
That contest was over a mile and a half and dropping down to nine furlong looks a big plus for Dougal Philps.
His most interesting rival has to be Aidan O’Brien’s newcomer, Skyphos, who is by Galileo out of the Irish 1000 Guineas winner, Tarascon.
Mullins’ Dare To Doubt got back on track when winning over flights at Cork last time, following a poor effort on the level at Leopardstown, and gets the nod in the www.ballinroberacecourse.com Maiden.
She will need to strip at her best, however, because both Shadow Eile and Benash are dangerous opponents.
Pat Martin has his team in fine form and Our Nana Rose, running off a paltry 45, can prove another for him in the Paddy Smyth Memorial Apprentice Handicap.
Our Nana Rose has been dropped 10lbs on the flat of late and has won her last two races over hurdles.
