Ruby Walsh: Curragh still has plenty of problems to overcome

Dropping the Irish Derby to 10 furlongs, making it more appealing for potential stallions, could be the way forward for the premier Classic.

the Curragh is feeling the heat as it prepares for its biggest race day, Irish Derby Day, and not from the sun but over the price of entry and poor attendance figures at the venue for the Guineas meeting. Picture: Inpho/Morgan Treacy

The Curragh and Newmarket, the perceived headquarters of Flat racing in Ireland and Britain, are both awash with negative conversation as Irish Derby Day dawns.

John and Thady Gosden have runners at Newmarket this afternoon, but Frankie Dettori, their stable jockey, doesn’t ride any of them.