Swing fancied for Irish 1000 Guineas

There is no doubting the class of Jim Bolger’s 1000 Guineas winner Finsceal Beo and many believe her to be a cast-iron certainty for the Boylesports-sponsored version at the Curragh on May 27.

However, it may pay to take a chance on her nearest pursuer at Newmarket, the John Oxx-trained Arch Swing.

Many paddock observers suggested the runner-up in the 1000 Guineas was the best-looking filly in the field that day.

And in the long term, she may be the one to follow.

Since Arch Swing’s Guineas appearance, her form has received an unexpected boost in the shape of one of her stable companions, Four Sins.

The two were separated by only a short head in April when contesting a 1000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown.

Four Sins has since gone onto a commanding success at Naas which propelled her near the head of the betting for the Oaks.

Despite the proximity of the French Guineas to Newmarket, Finsceal Beo ran with great credit and was only just touched off by the unbeaten Darjina in the French Guineas last week.

But in coming so close, she had a much harder race than at Newmarket and being asked to go to the well twice in a week may just leave its mark on the filly.

Arch Swing, on the other hand, has been prepared solely with one aim – the Irish Guineas.

John Oxx stated her participation is purely ground dependent and she will only turn up if the ground is riding fast, or at least good, due to her US pedigree.

But the fact she has two and a half lengths to make up from Finsceal Beo means Oxx’s filly will certainly be value to turn over the favourite.

With Bolger’s charge a measly 1-2 shot with Cashmans, taking the 3-1 for Arch Swing with the same firm could prove a shrewd piece of business.