Dundalk preview: Morse can crack the code for punters

Hero Of The Hour has leading claims in the third race

Wed, 14 Feb, 2024 - 01:00

Tommy Lyons

On the midweek visit to Dundalk, Morse can get punters off to the perfect start by taking the Book Online At DundalkStadium.com Maiden for Charles Weld and Niall McCullagh.

Now a four-year-old, he was having just his second start, and first in more than 15 months, when third to Squire Danagher here on January 31. That was a fine effort off such a lengthy break and if he is over those exertions, he ought to be too good for these rivals.

There is every reason to expect improvement from him and he can make light of the high draw and the drop back to a mile. A positive ride can be expected, and he is preferred to Gioiella and Lauroline, who finished second and third respectively in a fillies’ maiden here just 12 days ago.

Hero Of The Hour has leading claims in the third race, the Put The Fun In Fundraising At Dundalk Handicap. George Kingston’s horse hasn’t won since March of last year but has been in good form recently and his last start, late last month, suggested he was ready to put another winning mark on his card.

On that occasion, he didn’t enjoy the best of luck in running but kept up to his task nicely to finish fourth behind Prince Of Abington. Jack Kearney, who has ridden the horse once before, claims a handy 5lbs and can guide the seven-year-old to a fourth all-weather success.

Posh Maisie could represent some value in the Gateway Hotel Dundalk Race & Stay Fillies’ Maiden. Johnny Murtagh’s three-year-old made her debut just 29 days ago and there were patent signs of greenness in the early stages. While she finished eight of 10, she was less than four lengths behind the winner, Perfect Judgement, and it is fair to expect a significant step forward from her. Andalusian Star will be a leading fancy for Joseph O’Brien, who has made a good start to the year at this venue.

DUNDALK

Tommy Lyons

1:40 Morse (nap)

2:10 Secret Rock

2:40 Hero Of The Hour (nb)

3:10 Posh Maisie

3:40 Beautiful Dawn

4:10 Darkened

4:40 St Cianan’s Fire

5:15 Emeric

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1:40 Giogiella