12th August 2017

BetKudos News:

Declans Eyecatchers - This Weeks Horses To Follow...

ALANS PRIDE (Richard O'Brien) While 3/1 looked a crazy price - originally chalked up at 9/2 which looked pretty skinny too - in a hot 30 runner Curragh handicap, it was punters who had the last laugh as he scored for this new trainer who is certainly making quite a splash. Not related or connected in any way with the Ballydoyle dynasty, this Clare based handler is a sharp operator.

AWBEG PRINCE (Michael O'Connor) By all accounts an impressive winner on his sole point to point outing, he turned what looked a tough Cork bumper into an absolute rout. I imagine some of the big yards and owners are sniffing around, but either way he must go into the notebook.

FLEET REVIEW (Aidan O'Brien) While granted a soft lead at The Curragh he took full advantage when glued to the stands rail to hold off the determined challenge of Pat Smullen and I Am Power. Only withdrawn yesterday from the Phoenix Stakes, so is clearly well regarded but seven furlongs would be his maximum trip.

LANDSHARK (Jessica Harrington) Impressive debut winner Leopardstown on Thursday night, clearly highly rated by his trainer. Earned a 25/1 2,000 Guineas quote from Betfair. I'd hold fire on that for the moment, but he is certainly a smart colt.

MARKET'S FIELD (Enda Bolger) A real tough nut, stays forever over both hurdles and fences, and doesn't seem too ground dependent. Ready to step up in grade and longer term could be a Ladbrokes Troytown or Paddy Power Chase candidate.

TILIVER (Alan Fleming) This French import initially promised great things over hurdles but the wheels came off a bit. However fences have reignited the spark and he scored with plenty in hand at Sligo on Wednesday and is ready to step up in grade.

TITHONUS (Denis Hogan) Paid the price for trying to make all in river like conditions over seven furlongs on the last day at Galway. Perhaps needs a short break after a recent busy spell, but must not be missed if reappearing over six furlongs on even reasonable ground.

RIYAZAN (Michael Halford) Sent off an unconsidered 25/1 shot and not the main stable fancy, he skated in at The Curragh beating Nelson - supposedly one of the main Ballydoyle Derby hopefuls for next year at this stage - by four lengths. This Aga Khan owned juvenile will next appear on Irish Champions Weekend and is entitled to the utmost respect when he does.

SPANISH STEPS (Aidan O'Brien) Landed some nice bets when an all the way winner for Seamie Heffernan at Leopardstown, holding off better fancied stablemate Johannes Vermeer (Ryan Moore's only ride at the meeting.) That mile and a half trip looks his limit, he likes decent ground and he had to skip a Goodwood engagement when the rains came.

* Remember Alice Springs? Last year's Falmouth, Matron Stakes and Sun Chariot winner has not been seen in action since finishing a close second in the Gladness Stakes at Naas in early April. Aidan O'Brien told me at Leopardstown on Thursday: "She's back in full work. We may give her a racecourse gallop soon. The main target is the Breeders Cup but hopefully she'll have a prep race before that."

* A good week as our Galway Festival and Irish Tipping Service winners including Empress Lyla 10/1 (won 5/1) ; Lakemilan 9/2 (w 5/2); Whiskey Sour 4/1 (w 7/4); Espoir D'Soleil 4/1 (w 5/2); Deep Breath 3/1; Warm The Voice 15/8 and True Self 8/11 (w 4/7) and each way gems included Mo Henry 28/1 (placed 16/1); Wild Irish Rose 15/2 (pl. 7/2) The Gatechecker 16/1 (placed).

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Have a great weekend!

Declan O'Donoghue