Smullen ready to Rock in Topaz

Pat Smullen is the envy of most other jockeys during the Galway Festival so perhaps the hint should be taken when he says the ride he is looking forward to most is Rock Critic in the Topaz Mile EBF Handicap today.

Smullen has the backing of the powerful Dermot Weld stable, who had a record-breaking 17 winners last year and already look set for a 27th top Galway trainers’ title this week.

Rock Critic is a three-time course winner at the unique Ballybrit track but will have to defy top weight of 9st 12lb in the most valuable Flat event of the week.