Curragh Racecard - Saturday 24th September

THEFRIENDSOF

WOULDLIKETOWISHTHE

OWNERS,TRAINERS, JOCKEYSAND STABLESTAFF

ASSOCIATEDWITHTHE RUNNERSINTHE IRISHCESAREWITCH

THEVERYBESTOFLUCK

I would like to extend a warm Curragh welcome to you all today for the second day of the High Spirits and Food Autumn Festival featuring the Friends of the Curragh Irish Cesarewitch, Europe’s most valuable handicap and one of the highlights of the season here at the Curragh.

We are very grateful to today’s race sponsors - the Irish European Breeders Fund, the Leavy family, the Weld family, the Westgrove Hotel, Fitzpatrick’s Garage Group and Joe Keeling and the Friends of the Curragh. Your support, together with that of Horse Racing Ireland, is critical to underpinning prize money levels here at the Curragh.

We are very pleased also to be hosting the second leg of the Corinthian Challenge an important fundraiser for the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund whereby twelve amateur riders will tackle the famous 12-furlong track at the Curragh. Please give them any support you can.

I would also like to thank all owners of runners here today - we hope your experience at the Curragh is a good one and we thank you for your support.

We have made some changes to our offering which we hope you will enjoy and are always interested in hearing customer feedback. Please try out our new café Orby’s by Lucy which is beside the parade ring and is open seven days a week, Lilywhites Bar and the various facilities throughout the enclosures. To view racing, free seating is available throughout the front of the stand.

There is plenty of entertainment throughout the enclosures today with the inaugural High Spirits & Food Festival running alongside a packed program of racing with the opportunity to try delicious food from a range of vendors

We race here again at the Curragh in two weeks on Saturday October 7th and we look forward to welcoming you back here then and for our remaining meetings of the 2023 flat season.

Best wishes for a memorable day’s racing.

Brian Kavanagh Chief Executive bkavanagh@curragh.ie

THETEAMATTHECURRAGH

Brian Kavanagh Chief Executive bkavanagh@curragh.ie

Jean Monahan General Administration Manager jmonahan@curragh.ie

Evan Arkwright Racing and Sponsorship Manager eark@curragh.ie

Pat Kelly Training Grounds Manager pkelly@curragh.ie

Joanne Hyland Race Day Administration Assistant jhyland@curragh.ie

Robbie Moore Stable Yard Manager stableyardmanager@curragh.ie

Richie Brophy Grounds Manager rbrophy@curragh.ie

Ciara Doyle Racing and Training Grounds Executive cdoyle@curragh.ie

Paul Keane Sales Manager pkeane@curragh.ie

John Naughton Operations Manager jnaughton@curragh.ie

Tara Buick Senior Events & Comms Exec tbuick@curragh.ie

John Kenna Buildings & Facilities Manager jkenna@curragh.ie

SUNDAY24THSEPTEMBER

Under the Rules of Racing

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board is responsible for the integrity of Irish Racing.

RECEIVEROFENTRIES:

Horse Racing Ireland, Ballymany, The Curragh, Co. Kildare.

STAKEHOLDER:

Horse Racing Ireland

MEDICALOFFICERS:

Dr Jennifer Pugh

Dr Richard Downey

Dr Adrian McGoldrick

Dr Bernard Healy

Dr Frank Kenny

VETERINARYOFFICERS:

Mr Joe O’Donnell

Mr John Byrne

Mr Ernan O’Donnell

FARRIERS:

Eamon Behan

Sean Kelly

CLERKOFTHECOURSE:

Mr. B. Sheridan

In fulfilling this role, they provide Stewards and professional Officials at all racemeetings to ensure that their rules are properly observed.

The following list of Stewards and Officials are officiating at today’s race meeting:

STEWARDSONDUTY:

Mr. Justice Tony Hunt

Mr. C.P. Magnier

Mr. M.C. Hickey

Mr. Patrick Coveney

Mr. P. Deegan

CLERKOFTHECOURSE:

Mr. B. Sheridan

CLERKOFTHESCALES:

Mr. H. Hynes

STARTER:

Mr. P.F. Graffin

JUDGE:

Mr. D.J. Condell

HANDICAPPER

Mr. G. O’Gorman

STEWARDSSECRETARIES

Ms. P. Hassett & Mr. L. Aspell

MEDICALOFFICER:

Dr. G.M. Burke

VETERINARYOFFICER:

Ms. E. Costello M.V.B.

VETERINARYASSISTANTS:

Mr. D. Fennessy & Ms. C.S. Murphy

SECURITYOFFICER:

Mr. D. Buckley

No card authentic unless signed by the Clerk of the Course.

TODAY’S ACTION

HOSPITALITY & DINING OPTIONS

L I L Y W H I T E S L O U N G E

A public bar, located on the second floor of the Curragh Grandstand with floor to ceiling windows. Excellent view of the of the racecourse and easy access to all areas including the main grandstand and public seating

G O F F S CH AM PA GN E BA R

Public bar, located on the first floor of the Curragh Grandstand with a beautiful champagne terrace area overlooking the parade ring.

S H O D A CA F É

Public café, located in the bottom floor of the Queens room situated next to our Moyglare Kidszone overlookingthepreparadeandparadering Servingexcellenttea,coffee,sandwiches&sweettreats.

O R B Y ’ S BY LU C Y

Public café, located to the left of the main entrance of the Curragh racecourse with a fantastic view of the parade ring Open 7 days a week. Serving delicious wholesome food, coffee and sweet treats.

DERBY BAR & TERRACE

A public bar, located on the second floor of the Curragh Grandstand with floor to ceiling windows, a view of the racetrack and easy access to all areas including the main grandstand and public seating

CHAMPIONS HALL

Located on the ground floor of the Curragh Grandstand with a wide range of food options available from the Food Court, Atrium Café, Guineas Bar and Spar Shop

S T L E G E R RE S T A U R A N T

Located on Level 3 of the Grandstand with floor to ceiling windows and a private grandstand balcony with a panoramic view of the racecourse, the parade ring, and the Curragh Plains Prebooking essential, please enquire for future race days to avoid disappointment.

O A K S R E S T A U R A N T

Located on Level 2 of the Curragh Grandstand with floor to ceiling windows and a reserved balcony overlooking parade ring, easy access to all areas. Pre- booking essential, please enquire for future race days to avoid disappointment.

TATTERSALLS OWNERS & TRAINERS

Located on Level 3 of the Grandstand, the restaurant has floor to ceiling windows with spectacular views of the racecourse. A lounge is located adjacent to the restaurant Access only with Owners and Trainers Badge.

HIGH SPIRITS & FOOD FESTIVAL

BARBERSTOW CASTLE-Seafood Chowder & homemade b

afood own bread

SHODAFISHSHACK-Lobster rol

KHALILKITCHEN F

AC -Falafel & middle eastern dishes

BURRITO-Mexican Burritos

FALLONSKILCULLEN-Pig on a spit

SIDECHICK-Slinging Chicken

PIZZATRUCKBALLYMUN- Woodfired pizzas

ROCKINBURGERS- Gourmet Burgers

SWEETCHEESES-Cheese Board

TIGERICECREAM-Freshly whipped ice cream

FACCHINOFANCIES-Delicious desserts

JACKFORDGIN-Irish Gin

KILDAREBREWERY-Craft Beer and Kombucha

THEDEWDROPBREWERY-Craft Beer

KEEPERSHEARTWHISKEY-Irish Whiskey

CRAFTCOCKTAILS-Award winning cocktails

LITTLEANDGREEN.IE -Cocktails

NUDEWINECO-Seasonal wine showcase

The Curragh is delighted to partner with the following hotels, accommodation providers, restaurants and bars in 2023 and highly recommends all of them to enjoy a stay, drink after the races or a delicious meal.

Barberstown Castle, Staffran

https://www.barberstowncastle.ie/

FBD Hotels and Resorts including Killashee Hotel, Naas

https://www.killasheehotel.com/

Westgrove Hotel, Clane

https://www.westgrovehotel.com/

Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge

https://www.keadeenhotel.ie/

K Club, Straffan

https://www.kclub.ie/

Kildare House Hotel, Kildare Town

https://www.kildarehousehotel.ie/

Silken Thomas Accommodation, Restaurant and Bar, Kildare Town

https://silkenthomas.com/

Firecastle Accommodation, Kildare Town

https://firecastle.ie/about/the-rooms-firecastle/

The Rooms at Cunninghams, Bar and Restaurant, Kildare Town

https://cunninghamskildare.com/accommodation/ Harp Bar, Kildare Town

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057072566059

McDonnells Bar, Newbridge

http://www.mcdonnellsbar.ie/

O’Dooles Restaurant and Agape Café, Kildare Town

https://odooles-restaurant.business.site/

Hartes of Kildare Gastropub

https://harteskildare.ie/

Glenroyal Hotel and Shoda Restaurant

https://www.glenroyal.ie

stay, drink & delicious meal

TRACKFACTS ANDOTHERRACINGINFORMATION

ABOUTTODAY’SRACES TRACKINFORMATION

A right handed horseshoe-shaped track of 2 miles with no sharp bends and a run-in of 3 furlongs. This combined with a steady uphill finish makes it ideal for the galloping type The 5 and 6 furlongs contests are run on the straight course

LEADINGTRAINERSATCURRAGH(2018-2023)

WITHRUNNERS:

A P O’BRIEN (134 wins from 713 runners, 19%) runs HOUSE OF AVIZ &GASPER DE LEMOS (1.50), BRILLIANT & CONTENT (2.25), AESOP’S FABLES (3.00), TOWER OF LONDON (4.10).

J P O’BRIEN (78 wins from 692 runners, 11%) runs SALAH AL DEEN & SURFERS PARADISE (1.20), NO KNEE NEVER (1.50), DOLLERINA (2.25), POWERFUL AGGIE, ST VINCENTS GARDEN , MAGELLAN STRAIT, NUSRET & DAWN RISING (4.10), MORPH SPEED (4.45).

MRS J HARRINGTON (51 wins from 510 runners, 10%) runs MO GHILLE MAR & YES OUI SI (1.20), VERSATILE (1.50), OCEAN QUEST (3.00), POMERIGGIO (3.35), THE VERY MAN (4.10).

TRAINERSINFORM-MOSTWINSINTHELAST14DAYS:

A P O’BRIEN (11 wins from 54 runners, 20%) runners listed above

J P O’BRIEN (9 wins from 63 runners, 14%) runners listed above

G ELLIOTT (8 wins from 57 runners, 14%) runs WESTON (4.10), STUZZIKINI (5.20).

LEADINGJOCKEYSATCURRAGH(2018-2023)WITHRIDES:

C KEANE (71 wins from 536 rides, 13%) rides NITTI (1.20), METEOR STORM (1.50), SAKTI (2.25), PRETTY REBEL (3.00), ECHOES IN RAIN (4.10), CRASSUS (4.45).

R MOORE (70 wins from 256 rides, 27%) rides GASPER DE LEMOS (1.50), CONTENT (2.25), AESOP’S FABLES (3.00), TOWER OF LONDON (4.10).

B LEE (52 wins from 449 rides, 12%) rides GIBBS ISLAND (1.20), FINAL GESTURE (4.10), ALMUHIT (4.45).

JOCKEYSINFORM-MOSTWINSINTHELAST14DAYS:

COLIN KEANE (9 wins from 42 rides, 21%) rides listed above

RYAN MOORE (7 wins from 35 rides, 20%) rides listed above

DYLAN MCMONAGLE (6 wins from 33 rides, 18%) rides SALAH AL DEEN (1.20), NO KNEE NEVER (1.50), DOLLERINA (2.25), ST VINCENTS GARDEN (4.10), MAZE RUNNER (4.45).

NOTE: All statistics are up to and including 22nd September

HOWTOREAD YOURRACECARD

DARK BLUE

SEARCHFORASONG

10 SEARCHFORASONG(24)

Lightly-raced filly who is fast developing into a quality performer, and she backed up her commendable Irish

fourth by outclassing her Galtres Stakes rivals atYork. Very interesting. Winning

The Handicapper allots ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicapper to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions. A horse rated 100, for example, would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring penalties and allowances).

The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in non-handicapped races the rating shown is that each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed. Any subsequently published change rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating.

FIRST RACE 1.20P.M.

THE IRISH EBF MEDIAN SIRES SERIES MAIDEN OF €25,000

Starting from stalls. Value to winner: €14750; Second: €5000; Third: €2500; Fourth: €1250; Fifth: €750; Sixth: €500 (For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

A representative of the IEBF will present a trophy to the winning owner and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out. Jackpot

One Mile (1,600 metres) Guineas Post

50,000gns Starspangledbanner colt who will have given connections some encouragement with his debut third behind Los Angeles at Tipperary Drops back a furlong and he has to enter the equation this afternoon. Star Rating 3

Showed up for a while on his introduction at Leopardstown, but weakened when things got serious and dropped out of contention. Up from 7f now and he needs to see his race out a lot better Star Rating 2

Couldn’t go with the principals when push came to shove on his debut over 7f here, in a race won by the brilliant City Of Troy Given time to strengthen since and he is worth a look. Star Rating 3

His pedigree is quite interesting because he is a half-brother to Listed-winning juvenile Method, as well as smart jumper For Pleasure. Cost 50,000 euros as a yearling but, even so, others make more appeal. Star

2

Never really a factor on his Fairyhouse debut, although he did take a small step forward when fourth at Roscommon next time Must find further improvement if he is to play a part in today’s finish. Star Rating 3

6

Set the pace when sent off at 33/1 for his debut over course and distance but his supporters knew their fate when he began to back-pedal over two furlongs out. Much more needed. Star Rating 2 Killeaney

7 SALAH AL DEEN (-)

Br B c Magna Grecia - Fasnela

Magna Grecia colt whose price tag rose from 25,000gns as a foal to 125,000gns just under a year later Might come into his own over middle-distances next year, but warrants consideration on today’s debut. Star Rating 4

8 SEAS AND OCEANS (-)

Br B c Churchill - Little Empress

B Cottage Bloodstock

Son of Churchill who was purchased by his trainer for 10,500 euros as a yearling. His half-siblings, including a Group 2 runner-up in France, were most effective at sprint trips so the mile is a concern here Star Rating 2

9

Confirmed the promise of his debut fourth behind Diego Velazquez here when chasing home another smart

prospect at Tipperary Probably meets nothing of that calibre today and he can take full advantage

(GB) - Baby Love (GER)

Got going too late on his introduction at Gowran but he knew more of what was required of him next time, again staying on well to grab third at Down Royal. Extra furlong definitely suits. Star Rating 4

U S Navy Flag colt, out of a mare who won a 7f maiden for Dermot Weld before performing with some credit in Group 3 company here, prior to moving to the States. Can improve for today’s experience Star Rating 2

Out of a half-sister to Melbourne Cup hero Twilight Payment, with Ribblesdale winner and Irish Oaks runner-up Banimpire a bit further back in his pedigree Likely to need further but still worth a mention today Star Rating 3

From the family of dual Derby winner Harzand and she showed some of that stamina when keeping on into fifth on her debut over an extended 7f at Tipperary Give her plenty of thought. Star Rating 4

Only eighth in a good maiden won by Diego Velazquez on debut here but he offered more encouragement when chasing home smart juvenile Stromberg at Roscommon, albeit at a respectable distance Place claims. Star Rating 3

She has shown some ability in a couple of maidens at Leopardstown, although not quite enough to mark her out as a likely winner of this. Could improve for the rise to a mile, though.

Promising third in rain-affected conditions at Leopardstown on her introduction, but she didn’t step forward next time when only mid-division at Gowran. It is too early to write her off, though. Star Rating 3

Br B f Ten Sovereigns - Mississippilanding

Cashman

Ten Sovereigns filly who was bought for €95,000 as a yearling and is from the family of Listed winner Giuseppe Garibaldi, as well as Ace Aussie, who was smart for this yard a couple of years back. Star Rating 3

18 JLOW (-) 2 8 11 (123) (1)

Br B f Footstepsinthesand (GB) - Boreagh Lass

B Mr B McNeill

Daughter of Footstepsinthesand, out of a mare who is from a family with a decent record in Dubai. This is a tough starting point for her, though, and it is easy to look elsewhere Star Rating 1

Her debut seventh at Leopardstown wasn’t devoid of promise, but she failed to build on it when occupying the same position at Navan. Up in trip, but difficult to make a case for her Star Rating 2

Sent off at 100/1 for her introduction at Cork and she ran accordingly, failing to beat any of her six rivals home Impossible to recommend this afternoon on that evidence Star Rating 1 Abel Mabel 100/1 J.M. Sheridan 9.2 8 3/4L last of 7 to

TStrap worn by No 4, No 7.

Probable Starting Prices - 4/1 Surfers Paradise, 7/1 Marty The Party, Salah Al Deen, 8/1 Barnso (GB), Yes Oui Si, 10/1 Slaney Swagger, Hazbaiya, Mo Ghille Mar, 12/1 Auguste Lumiere, 14/1 Gibbs Island (GB), Nitti, 16/1 Glimmerglass, Abel Mabel, 20/1 With Annie Luck, 25/1 Killeaney Bear, 33/1 King Of Lots, Divine Pleasure, Seas And Oceans, Private Officer, 50/1 Jlow

2022 - 1st Starry Heavens 2nd Mount King 3rd Rubio Draco (1 min. 42.9 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

SURFERS PARADISE began his career in the 7f maiden won by Diego Velazquez here, showing plenty of ability in fourth, and then finished a couple of lengths clear of Marty The Party when they took minor honours at Tipperary. The drop from 1m1f should be in his favour and he can make it third-time lucky. The penny dropped for Hazbaiya a bit too late on her introduction but she caught the eye when the race was all over. Salah Al Deen, a stable companion of the selection, is arguably the pick of the newcomers.

WIN: SURFERS PARADISE DANGER: Hazbaiya

WESLEY COLLEGE

2023/24 fixtures

Saturday 7th October

Staffordstown Stud Stakes & Darley Brigid’s Pastures Stakes

Thursday 12th October Student Derby

Wednesday 25th October Amateur Riders Derby

Sunday 5th November Finale of the 2023 flat season

Monday BH 18th March Opening Day of Irish Flat Racing Season

Saturday 6th April Newbridge Parishes Community Day

Sunday 21st April

Monday BH 6th May

Friday 24th to 26th May Tattersalls Irish Guineas Festival

Friday 28th to 30th June Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival

Sat 20th and Sun 21st July Juddmonte Irish Oaks Weekend

Saturday 10th August Summer Saturday Series

Saturday 17th August Summer Saturday Series

Saturday 24th August Summer Saturday Series

Saturday 31st August Summer Saturday Series

Sunday 15th September Irish Champions Festival

Sat 28th and Sun 29th September High Spirits and Food Festival

Saturday 5th October

Thursday 17th October

Tuesday 22nd October Season

Sunday 3rd November Finale of Irish Flat 3rd November

THELEAVYFAMILY

THE LEAVY FAMILY are delighted to sponsor todays maiden in memory of our beloved father Pat or The Duke as he was fondly known around Portarlington. His passion was horse racing and Portarlington GAA.

He was at his happiest sitting under the old stand in the Curragh with his great frineds Jim Mangan, Tom Grumpy Murphy RIP, or Jimmy Joyce, sipping a glass of black and white scotch and having a bet on a Con Collins winner or roaring home Mick Kinane, his two get me out of jail cards.

The Curragh was a special place for him. The Derby Weekend was the highlight of his career which began with a Derby breakfast or dinner in mangans house, Kildare hosted by Kay Mangan RIP. Then onto racing and back to Paddy Finlays in Port with full or empty pockets but always a good story. He became involved in Portarlington Racing Club and had winners with PJ Finn and had horses with Michael Halford Snr along the way. Seamie Heffernan led up his first winner Spirited Holme over jumps with Tommy Carmody on board and another young man called Aidan O’Brien was there as well. Declan Gillespie rode the clubs other winner Port Flyer both trained by PJ Finn.

Racing plays a big part in the Leavy household today and the Dukes love of racing lives on with his son Kieran whose horses still carry the Portarlington GAA colours in memory of Pat.

The Leavy Family would like to thank all our friends who have joined us here today to remember the Duke. We hope everybody has a great day at the races and a safe homeward journey. We also wish the staff at the Curragh continued success in the future.

SECOND RACE 1.50P.M.

THE PAT ‘THE DUKE’ LEAVY IRISH EBF MAIDEN OF €16,500

Starting from stalls. Value to winner: €9735; Second: €3300; Third: €1650; Fourth: €825; Fifth: €495; Sixth: €330 (For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

Members of The Leavy Family will present a trophy to the winning owner and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

TRIFECTA RACE

Seven Furlongs (1,400 metres) Rathbride Post

There is some quality in his pedigree and he runs for a yard that sent out a debut winner

earlier this month. Dangerous to underestimate, despite the lack of previous

He is a full-brother to Dame Kiri, a winner over 6f for this yard as a juvenile, and can be expected to be wiser after running green on his debut at Leopardstown last month. Star Rating 4

He showed marked improvement from his debut when he was a respectable third in a

over this trip 10 days ago and he appears to be going the right way Star Rating 4

Michael

Unplaced in both previous starts at this course It is possible he can improve over this intermediate trip but Gasper De Lemos may be the stable’s best hope. Star Rating 3

An €80,0000 purchase and his dam, a half-sister to dual Group 3 winner My Catch, managed to win as a juvenile There is a lot to like on paper ahead of his debut run. Star Rating 4

He was always towards the rear on his debut and he will need to post a much improved effort if he is going to play a stronger role over this shorter trip under more testing conditions. Star Rating 2

A half-brother to six winners, including Irish Derby hero Latrobe and Gladness Stakes winner Diamond Fields. He is a highly appealing choice on pedigree and a must for consideration. Star

Closely matched with his stablemate Natural Ruler, and he is another who needs to take a big step forward from what he managed to muster over a mile here last month. Star Rating 2

A half-brother to winning sprinter Eriskay, he made a highly encouraging start over a mile here last month and is shortlist material having created the impression that a drop to this sort of trip could bring improvement.

4

(FR) - Flora Danica

Runs for a high-profile yard and is an appealing newcomer His dam is an unraced half-sister to Dewhurst winner Intense Focus, as well as being a relative of other high-class performers. A must for consideration. Star Rating 5

Probable Starting Prices - 11/4 Taraj, 7/2 Gasper De Lemos, 5/1 House Of Aviz (USA), 6/1 Gesture, 7/1 Meteor Storm (GB), Versatile, 8/1 No Knee Never, 10/1 Natural Ruler, 33/1 Pandion Power, 50/1 Flying Bay

2022 - 1st Espionage 2nd Sierra Blanca 3rd Djockovic (1 min. 26.7 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

Meteor Storm and VERSATILE are two highly appealing newcomers and while the former ticks all the right boxes as a potential player over this sort of trip, the latter, a €235,000purchase whose dam is a half-sister to Dewhurst winner Intense Focus, shades the vote. That is not to underestimate potential improvers Taraj, Gesture and Gasper De Lemos, who are candidates for progression as they gain more experience.

WIN: VERSATILE

DANGER: Meteor Storm

INMEMORYOFCHARLIE ANDMARGUERITEWELD

The Weld Park Stakes has been sponsored by Dermot Weld since 1983. The race is run in memory of his parents, Charlie and Marguerite. Initially run at the Phoenix Park, it was transferred to the Curragh in 1991.

Charlie Weld was one of the most respected and successful dual-purpose trainers of his generation. Initially, he trained close to the Phoenix Park, but he later moved to Rosewell House on the Curragh. His training career spanned from 1950 through to the early 1970’s. Notable winners he trained include National Stakes winner Decies, Farney Fox, Coniston, Galway Plate winner Highfield Lad and Phoenix Stakes winner Right Strath. Ticonderoga won the Galway Hurdle having previously won the Galway Amateur Handicap for Charlie’s fifteen-year-old son, Dermot.

Marguerite Weld, originally from Rathgormack Co. Waterford played a very important role alongside her husband. Her father was a dairy famer but also kept and trained horses. Having learned to ride a pony at the age of three, horse riding would become a source of major enjoyment throughout her life. Breeding horses was also of huge interest to her. Over the years she bred many good horses including Classic winners Grey Swallow and Nightime, both at the Curragh. Roll Of Honour won the Grand Prix De Paris under Lester Piggott and the admirable Tarry Flynn won the Irish Lincolnshire on two occasions. At Stud, Nightime would go on to produce Ghaiyyath, the World’s Leading Racehorse in 2020.

The race has a rich history of being won by future Classic and Group One winners and also Group One producers. Previous winners include Trusted Partner, Ballet De France, Ridgewood Pearl, Last Second, Alborada, Token Gesture and Imagine. Qualify, the winner in 2013, won the Epsom Oaks the following year while subsequent dual Guineas heroine Hermosa, won the race in 2018.

Nighttime winning the Irish 1000 Guineas in 2006

THEWELDPARKSTAKES

10YEARROLLOFHONOUR

YEAR WINNER OWNER TRAINER JOCKEY

2022 BasilMartini MrsMVMagnier& JosephO’Brien DeclanMcDonogh MrsPaulShanahan

2021 ConcertHall Coolmore,Westerberg, APO’Brien SeamieHeffernan &KatsumiYoshida

2020 Elysium GeorgeStrawbridge NoelMeade WayneLee

2019 NewYorkGirl HealthyWoodLtd JosephO’Brien ShaneCrosse

2018 Hermosa Maginer/Tabor/Smith APO’Brien RyanMoore

2017 Ellthea MrsMauraGittins KRBurke ColmO’Donoghue

2016 Eziyra HHAgaKhan DKWeld PatSmullen

2015 Coolmore Maginer/Tabor/Smith APO’Brien JosephO’Brien

2014 Qualify LouisRonan& APO’Brien JosephO’Brien MrsKateRonan

2013 MyTitania ChristopherTsui JohnMOxx DeclanMcDonogh

THIRD RACE 2.25P.M.

THE WELD PARK STAKES OF €55,000 (GROUP 3)

Starting from stalls. Value to winner: €32450; Second: €11000; Third: €5500; Fourth: €2750; Fifth: €1650; Sixth: €1100

(For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

Jackpot

-

Seven Furlongs (1,400 metres) Rathbride Post

that second appearance and looks capable of playing a big part at this higher level.

Impressive when gaining a breakthrough success over 7f at

only the unbeaten

and shouldn’t be far away today

Beat all bar Ylang Ylang on debut over course and distance, but she didn’t enjoy the best of passages in a Group 2 at this venue last month. Can’t be discounted. Star Rating 3 Dollerina

5

O’NEIL (43) 2 9 2 (128) (4) Br B f Zoffany - Livia Galilei

F B Kevin J Molloy Gary Carroll J O Robert J W Moran Joseph G Murphy T

Should have learned plenty from her debut fifth over track and trip last month, although clearly has a lot more on her plate in this deeper contest. Best to look elsewhere Star Rating 2

Peggy O’Neil

A representative of the Weld Family will present a trophy to the winning owner and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

– Races 3,4,5,6

Play The Jackpot Now! TRIFECTA RACE

Touched off by Brilliant on her introduction and then posted another creditable effort in defeat when runner-up in the Group 2 Debutante Stakes over C&D This daughter of Caravaggio is likely to go well again. Star

Built on her fourth-placed debut here in August when finding only one too good at Cork earlier this month, going down by just a head. Must improve again to feature here Star Rating 3

Probable Starting Prices - 9/4 Sakti, 11/4 Caught U Looking, 10/3 Content, 6/1 Dollerina, 13/2 Brilliant, 10/1 Settlement (GB), 25/1 Peggy O’Neil

2022 - 1st Basil Martini 2nd Gan Teorainn 3rd Keep In Touch (1 min. 27.2 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

After finishing in mid-division on debut, CAUGHT U LOOKING proved a completely different proposition when quickening clear from her rivals in an 18-runner maiden at Leopardstown. The Harzand filly may have more to come and looks capable of dealing with the rise in class. Sakti posted an excellent runner-up effort in the Debutante Stakes over C&D and may emerge as the chief threat to the selection, ahead of Content, who found only the unbeaten Kitty Rose too strong at the Irish Champions Festival.

WIN: CAUGHT U LOOKING

THECURRAGHRACECOURSEHERETOHELP!

Ask our team of customer service personnel if you need help, information or assistance. They will be located throughout the enclosures.

DANGER: Sakti

THEDIRECTORSANDMANAGEMENTOFTHECURRAGHRACECOURSE WOULDLIKETOTHANKTHEFOLLOWINGSPONSORSTODAY

THEFRIENDSOF THECURRAGH

THEWESTGROVEHOTEL RENAISSANCESTAKES

10YEARROLLOFHONOUR

YEAR WINNER OWNER TRAINER JOCKEY

2022 ArtPower KingPowerRacingCoLtd TimEasterby DavidAllan

2021 ArtPower KingPowerRacingCoLtd TimEasterby DavidAllan

2020 VenturaRebel AbdullahMenahi RichardFahey DeclanMcDonogh

2019 SpeakInColours MrsCCRegalado-Gonzalez JosephO’Brien ShaneCrosse

2018 Unfortunately CheveleyParkStud KRBurke ChrisHayes

2017 QuietReflection Ontoawinner,Strecker&Burke KRBurke MartinHarley

2016 TheHappyPrince Maginer/Tabor/Smith APO’Brien RyanMoore

2015 Moviesta HRedknapp,WSalthouse EdwardLynam ChrisHayes &RitchieFiddes

2014 Jamesie DamianLavelle DavidMarnane ColmO’Donoghue

2013 RussianSoul JamesWigan MickHalford ShaneFole

FOURTH RACE 3.00P.M.

THE WESTGROVE HOTEL RENAISSANCE STAKES OF €52,500 (GROUP 3)

Stalls Centre Of Course Value to winner: €30975; Second: €10500; Third: €5250; Fourth: €2625; Fifth: €1575; Sixth: €1050

(For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

A representative of the Westgrove Hotel will present a trophy to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

TRIFECTA RACE

This represents a rise in grade, but he must enter calculations on the back of arguably a career best when winning his second Bold Lad Handicap over C&D earlier in the month. Winning Range Gd

The form of his most recent second over C&D has been well franked by the winner scoring in Group 1 company since, and he must be a leading contender in this. Winning Range Yld-Gd. Star Rating 4

Recent form figures leave a lot to be desired, though he had shown some decent form earlier in the season, including when third to Shaquille at Newbury Others are preferred for win purposes. Winning Range Gd. Star Rating 3

C

The majority of her winning has come over further and this is an interesting move

starts,

began back in April.

Rating 3

A taking winner of a Group 3 at Naas last month, and not beaten far in Group

Royal Ascot, this filly sets the standard on form. Winning Range

would not inspire much confidence, and

rediscover some of his best two-year-old form.

She has not been in action since a promising third in Listed company at Cork in

and this looks a tough ask on her return. Winning Range YS-Sft. Star Rating 2

worn by No 5. TStrap worn by No 8.

Probable Starting Prices - 10/3 Ocean Quest, 4/1 Shartash, 9/2 Go Athletico (FR), 8/1 Big Gossey, Twilight Jet, Aesop’s Fables, Clever And Cool, 12/1 Wodao (FR), 16/1 Pretty Rebel 2022 - 1st Art Power 2nd Sam Maximus (GB) 3rd Just Beautiful

CURRAGH COMMENT

An impressive winner of a Group 3 at Naas, OCEAN QUEST remains a relatively unexposed sprinter and there is plenty more to come from Jessica Harrington’s filly on ground she should enjoy. Shartash has ground to find with her from earlier in the season, and must bounce back from a mishap at the stalls when competing in Group 3 company over C&D last month. Go Athletico was runner-up in that contest and must be a leading contender on the back of what has been a solid season for new connections.

WIN: OCEAN QUEST

DANGER: Shartash

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@thecurraghracecourse

FIFTH RACE 3.35P.M.

THE FITZPATRICK’S GARAGE GROUP NURSERY HANDICAP OF €15,000

Starting from stalls. Handicaps calculated 19th September Value to winner: €8850; Second: €3000; Third: €1500; Fourth: €750; Fifth: €450; Sixth: €300 (For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

TRIFECTA RACE

Arguably put in a career-best effort when fourth in a valuable sales race here two weeks ago and

be of interest on the back of that performance Star Rating 5

Has shown promise on his last couple of starts, including over 6f here last time, but

some improvement to get off the mark this afternoon. Star Rating 3

Not beaten far when fourth on her nursery debut at Navan late last month but more is required to score here, despite a 2lb drop in the ratings. Star Rating 3

All About The Girls

Took a step forward when fourth in a nursery at Naas 10 days ago and the

could help her to make the frame here Star Rating 4

Pomeriggio Handicap Rating 69

application

at Sligo last month and that form gives him a big chance today, although he is 4lb higher now

Only narrowly denied when second in a nursery over an extended

A representative of Fitzpatrick’s Garage Group will present a Trophy to the winning owner and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

Has

place on both starts in nursery company to date and he

need to improve significantly for a first-time visor to win a race of this nature Star Rating 3

Showed some promise earlier in the year, including when third here in April,

higher mark at Naas last time and others make more appeal. Star

built on an encouraging debut over an extended

result, a watching brief is advised on her nursery bow this afternoon.

Blinkers worn by No 4. Visor worn by No 6.

Probable Starting Prices - 11/4 Pomeriggio, 3/1 Uncle Albert, 6/1 Poppadom, 13/2 Vestigia, 7/1 Barley Cove, 8/1 Promo Queen, 12/1 Naisiun, 14/1 Thia

2022 - 1st Devore 2nd American Sonja (GB) 3rd Man Of Eden (GB) (1 min. 26.9 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

VESTIGIA caught the eye when finishing well to take fourth in a valuable event over an extended 6f here recently and that form suggests that he could be hard to beat off an opening mark of 75. Another who may benefit from a step up in trip is Uncle Albert, who hit the crossbar on his nursery debut at Sligo last month and could prove to be the main threat. Pomeriggio is likely to improve in first-time blinkers and is the pick of the remainder.

WIN: VESTIGIA

CURRAGHWEBSITE

DANGER: Uncle Albert

Please check out The Curragh website for all the latest news and information: www.curragh.ie

THANK YOU

The Curragh would like to thank Moyglare Stud for their support of the Stable Staff Canteen for their 2023 racing season.

SIXTH RACE 4.10P.M.

THE FRIENDS OF THE CURRAGH IRISH CESAREWITCH OF €600,000 (0-110) (PREMIER HANDICAP)

Starting from stalls. Handicaps calculated 8th August. Value to winner: €324000; Second: €120000; Third: €60000; Fourth: €30000; Fifth: €18000; Sixth: €12000; Seventh: €9000; Eighth: €9000; Ninth: €6000;

(For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

Joe Keeling, representing The Friends of The Curragh, will present the Irish Cesarewitch perpetual trophy to the winning owner and trophies to the winning trainer and jockey and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

TRIFECTA RACE

but his last win was over five

metres)

in the

two

ago and cannot be overlooked.

Warmed up for this with a creditable Galway third recently and ground conditions look to have come right for her on the back of last year’s neck second in the race Winning Range Sft-GS.

Gd /Frm 13/8Fav HR150 P. Townend 11.7 (H) (TS) won 9 1/2L 1L from Anna Bunina (FR) 11.7 and Shewearsitwell 11.7 PUN 29 APR 6rn hdl Grade 1 2m 3f 30yds Gd/Yld

FALCON EIGHT (92) James Nolan’s, Kildare 8 10 0 (140) (9) Br B g Galileo - Polished Gem (Blinkers) 1820-06 F B Moyglare Stud Farm Ltd Jake Coen (5) J O Dr R Lambe & Dr J Climax D K Weld T

No stranger to winning at this track (2-4) and finished a creditable fifth in this last year Goes on any ground and is on a workable mark; place claims. Winning Range SH-GF Star Rating 3

Falcon Eight 5 flat wins €126,076.00 1 N.H. win €6,195.00 C Handicap Rating 103

Tom Marquand 9.4 (CP) 5L 6th of 9 to Dawn Rising 9.4 ASCOT 24 JUN 2m 5f 143yds Gd /Frm

R. L. Moore 9.12 (V) 30L 15th of 16 to Metier 9.1 CHESTER 12 MAY hcp 2m 2f 140yds Sft 9/1 HR132 M.J.M O’Sullivan 10.12 (V) 69L 14th of 19fn, 27rn to Maxxum 10.5 LEP 28 DEC 22 Ext hcp hdl 3m Sft

4 NOVEL LEGEND (19) Oak Bar, Westgrove Clane 4 10 0 (7lbs ex) (140)(32)

Br B g Nathaniel - Majestic Dubawi (GB) 112721 F

B Ballylinch Stud Chris Hayes J

O Boniface Ho Ka Kui James Fanshawe (in GB) T

A fascinating British contender who has yet to run a bad race over this type of distance, and he’ll go on the ground too Very much one to consider Winning Range Sft-Gd & AW Star Rating 4

Novel Legend 4 flat wins €53,931 Handicap Rating 103

Daniel Muscutt 9.11 won nk nk from Grand Providence (GB) 8.2 and Aggagio (FR) 9.2 GOODWOOD 5 SEP 8rn hcp (81-100)2m Gd 3min 31.2sec

William Buick 9.8 3L 2nd to Sweet William 9.2 NEWBURY 22 JUL 13rn hcp 2m 110yds Gd

Daniel Muscutt 9.5 4L 7th of 19 to Ahorsewithnoname (GB) 9.8 ASCOT 20 JUN hcp (0-100)2m 3f 210yds Gd

5 SUNCHART

His only previous visit to this track was a victorious one and he’s continued to progress

is now just 1lb higher than when landing the Newmarket equivalent in 2019

winner must be respected for a powerful yard.

Jockey booking is a huge positive and the ground is right for him too Won on his only previous visit to the track so he ticks plenty of boxes. Winning Range Sft. Star Rating 4

and only a neck away in a third run there,

at Doncaster last year; player. Winning Range

Rating 100

This is a quick turnaround after his fourth in the St Leger

A multiple winner over hurdles and he absolutely bolted up at Ascot’s Shergar

that promise when scoring in a charity race here latest and commands respect.

Dropped to a mark which is just 4lb higher than his last winning one, but he needs to step up on

form to feature Winning Range YS-GY. Star Rating 2 Sionnach Eile 3

wins €78,765.00 Handicap Rating

Struggled over 1m 4f at Galway last time but might improve on that going back up in trip because he performed well at Royal Ascot in the Ascot Stakes. Winning Range Sft-GS. Star Rating 3

2m but was a long way behind Teed Up at Galway last time She won a Listed race over 2m at Down Royal in June, though. Winning Range Sft-Gd. Star Rating 2

Powerful Aggie (FR) 4 flat wins €64,900.00

Handicap Rating 96

16/1 HR96 Miss A.B. O’Connor 11.11 (CP) 18L 11th of 20 to Teed Up 10.13 GAL 31 JUL hcp (70-100)2m 191yds Hvy 12/1 HR94 D.P. McDonogh 9.9 4 3/4L

He could still be on a fair mark judged on his November Handicap defeat of

Naas last year and must not be underestimated for his shrewd connections. Winning Range

Successful twice at

He has struggled in recent starts and still needs to prove himself over this far; others hold more pressing claims. Winning Range GY-Gd.

A winner at 1m 4f

twice run well in Pattern company this season and the

could be involved from the foot of the handicap. Winning Range

RESERVES

son

Successful at

Could still have a bit in hand judged on his hurdles rating. One to note if lining up here; second reserve Winning Range Hvy & GY Star Rating 3

3 N.H. wins €80,435.40 C Handicap Rating 89

33 WHISKEY SOUR (23)

Br B g Jeremy (USA) - Swizzle Stick

B Airlie Stud

O Luke McMahon

He has won four times from 7f to 2m 1f 8lb lower than when well held in this contest 12 months ago, but more will be required if he gets a run. Third reserve Winning Range Sft. Star Rating 2

12/1 Novel Legend, Dawn Rising, 14/1 Jackfinbar (FR), Chally Chute, The Very Man, Lot Of Joy, St Vincents Garden, 16/1 Falcon Eight, 20/1 Final Gesture, Jesse Evans, Nusret (GB), Mon Coeur, 25/1 Stratum (GB), Mt Leinster, HMS Seahorse, Weston (GER), Powerful Aggie (FR), M C Muldoon, The Shunter, Drop The Anchor, 33/1 Sunchart (GB), Sionnach Eile, Dartan (GB), Magellan Strait, 50/1 Joupe, Legendary Day (GB)

2022 - 1st Waterville 2nd Echoes In Rain (FR) 3rd Lot Of Joy (3 min. 38.9 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

ECHOES IN RAIN finished a neck second in this 12 months ago and is taken to go one better this time. Willie Mullins’ charge, a dual Grade 1 winner over hurdles, has ground conditions in her favour and seems to really thrive in these big-field handicaps. Novel Legend is a fascinating British representative as he has yet to perform poorly running over these types of trips and showed a good attitude to win at Goodwood last time, while Dawn Rising has a lot less on his plate than when third in the Irish St. Leger. Tower Of London finished fourth in the St Leger at Doncaster last weekend and, although this is a quick turnaround, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see him run well.

WIN: ECHOES IN RAIN

FREESHUTTLEBUS

The Curragh in association with Manguard Plus is delighted to offer a free shuttle bus from Kildare Town, Naas and Newbridge.

For further details contact Customer Information in Champions Hall.

DANGER: Novel Legend

THECURRAGHRECORDTIMES

SEVENTH RACE 4.45P.M.

THE FRIENDS OF THE CURRAGH POLLARDSTOWN HANDICAP OF €60,000 (0-95)

Starting from stalls. Handicaps calculated 19th September Value to winner: €35400; Second: €12000; Third: €6000; Fourth: €3000; Fifth: €1800; Sixth: €1200

(For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

The Friends of The Curragh will present a trophy to the winning owner and a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

TRIFECTA RACE

Arrives on the back of a victory over a similar trip at Killarney and looks capable of giving it a good go

top weight now returned to handicap company Winning Range

Successful at 1m 4f and 2m; has also won two hurdles. Won over 2m here last season and demands respect for his powerful yard, but has shown little of note so far this year Winning Range Sft-Gd. Star Rating 2

Doing his best work at the finish when an easy winner off 7lb lower over 1m5f at Down Royal on his latest start in July and there could be more to come over this longer trip Winning Range GY-Gd. Star Rating 4

Gradulations (GB) 2 flat wins €23,600.00 Handicap Rating 85

3/1 HR78 G.F Carroll 9.2 (CP) won 2 1/2L 1/2L from White Caviar (FR) 10.0 and Zola Sakura 10.3 DRYL 28 JUL 6rn Ext hcp 1m 4f 175yds Gd 2min

5

Reported to be lame when a disappointing favourite in a valuable 1m5f handicap on his Flat return

month and this talented hurdler would be a player if bouncing back from that lacklustre effort.

Has returned from a long layoff in fine form and powered clear for an impressive victory over

has been franked by the 10th winning since and a 7lb rise may not halt this course

to recommend on what she has shown in recent months and

again, despite a tumbling handicap mark. Winning Range Gd. Star Rating 2

(3) J O Exors of the Late Jeremiah Nolan H Rogers T

Winner of six races from 1m 4f to 2m; has also won three hurdles. Worth a second look if conditions become testing but he has something to find on his recent form. Winning Range SH-Sft. Star Rating 2

Lord Erskine 6 flat wins €94,729.00 3 N.H. wins €22,107.00 Handicap Rating 79

9/1 HR79 Siobhan Rutledge 8.13 (CP) 5L 1 1/2L nk 4th

Probable Starting Prices - 7/2 Crassus, 5/1 Sundial, Gradulations (GB), 11/2 Merlin Giant (FR), 13/2 Almuhit, Morph Speed, 10/1 Maze Runner, 12/1 Lord Erskine, 20/1 Wild Dollar, L’Un Deux Trois, 25/1 Female Soldier, Lispendense

2022 - 1st Autumn Evening (GB) 2nd Harry’s Legacy (GB) 3rd Star Image (GB) (3 min. 45.6 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

It could pay to concentrate on Gradulations and CRASSUS, both of whom have gone up 7lb for winning very impressively at Down Royal last time out. The former shaped as though further would suit over 1m5f there in July, but the latter’s stamina is proven following his 2m2f romp 16 days ago and his recent match-fitness could give him the edge. Sundial is a potential fly in the ointment on his return to the Flat off what could be a fair mark, while it would be no surprise to see useful hurdler Merlin Giant leave a disappointing Leopardstown effort well behind.

WIN: CRASSUS

DANGER: Gradulations

HORSEWELFARE-APRIORITY

At every race meeting there are specially qualified equine veterinary surgeons on duty to look after the wellbeing of all the horses racing. There is a vet in attendance at the start of each race who, follows the horses throughout the race and is quickly on hand if a casualty occurs. It is normal procedure to erect screens around any horse receiving veterinary treatment. This allows the veterinary surgeon some privacy to fully assess the horses’ injuries and race goers should not assume the worst if screens are erected around an injured horse.

The Blue Cross ambulance is always present to transport the horse back to the stable yard for further treatment if necessary.

A second veterinary surgeon is in attendance in the stable yard to assess and treat any horses requiring such attention post race. The horses’ welfare is always our priority.

THE ASSOCIATION OF IRISH RACECOURSE VETERINARY SURGEONS (AIRCVS)

Blinkers worn by No 9. C,T worn by No 6. CPiece worn by No 1, No 2, No 4. Hood worn by No. 8. TStrap worn by No. 3, No. 5, No. 10, No. 12. Long Handicap - Lispendense 8-6 (118), L’Un Deux Trois 8-4 (116)

THE CORINTHIAN CHALLENGE CHARITY RACE JOCKEYS

Eimear O’Gorman

Eimear O’Gorman is from a farming family in Carlow and there were always horses at home She grew up riding ponies and has been working in the racing industry for over seventeen years, as yard manager, work rider, veterinary and stud secretary and she also had a livery yard at home

Eimear flirted with the idea of taking out an apprentice Flat jockeys licence many moons ago but an old rule of an age cut off at 25 years old to be a claimer put that idea to bed as she was just about to turn 25!! An injury put an end to her intention of riding in the 2014 Punchestown charity race so here she is after a nine year hiatus from riding race horses taking part in three races!! Eimear is riding out three mornings a week in her old boss’s yard Shark Hanlon’s who has kindly offered her a good horse for the races. In order to maintain her fitness to a decent race riding level she is training daily by running, cycling, lifting weights and hiking. Jockey Coach Paddy Flood is putting her through tough training on the simulator at RACE and has been unvaluable in understanding how to ride a race at each course effectively https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/eimear-o-gorman-d1bbb

Michael O’Neill

Michael hails from Kilkenny and is married to Aoife with whom they have two children Saoirse and Kieran. He is a competent showjumper and was national amateur champion in 2018. He is the Managing Director of Tranziberia, a road haulage company, so when he’s not in the saddle he’s traveling Europe meeting valued customers. Michael is currently riding out with Emmet Mullins and is also getting training from jockey coach Paddy Flood in RACE. “I think everyone in racing knows the excellent work done by the I.I.J and to be able to contribute to this whilst also getting to enjoy the challenge of taking part in the series is fantastic”. https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/michael-o-neill

Martina Dempsey

Martina grew up in the Thoroughbred County near the Curragh in Kildare and was involved with horses from a young age Her first job working in racing was with Trainer Frank Ennis and has gained experience with many other racehorse trainers on the Curragh and in Australia over the years. She is an education professional with a Master of Science (MSc) focused in Applied Equine Science from University College Dublin. Previously an Equine Lecturer at the College of Agriculture Food & Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and Kildalton College

Martina joined the Godolphin Flying Start team in October 2021 as Ireland Coordinator As well as this role she also teaches at Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE) and The Irish Farriery school along with riding a few lots at Rangers Lodge Pretraining. Although working for many years in the Thoroughbred Industry, Martina has never ridden on the track and is very honoured to get this opportunity to do so and to raise money for a worthy cause https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/martina-dempsey

Niamh Ashe

Niamh, an Equine Therapist originally from Dublin and now living in The Curragh. Niamh works with owners and trainers to assess and treat horses with complex injuries and behavioural issues. Working with clients within the racing industry she also rides out five mornings a week in a racing yard.

Niamh has competed on her own sport horses for the last 16 years in a variety of disciplines and show jumping. In 2016 she participated in the Race Horse to Riding Horse class in the RDS Horse Show and was given the opportunity last year to be a ridden judge in numerous shows around the country A huge advocate on the need for retraining racehorses she thoroughly enjoyed this as rehabilitation and re-schooling are passions of hers.

‘’Competing in the Corinthian Challenge is important to me because I have experienced the difficulty of physical and mental recovery following accidents and injuries for both myself and friends in the Racing Industry Irish Injured Jockeys is an unwavering vital support to jockeys and their families and I am proud to be part of helping them continue to provide that support. I am hoping my natural determination to succeed and my competitive streak will serve me well during this challenge!’’ https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/niamh-ashe

Vivienne Connolly

Born and bred in Kildare, Vivienne’s family have a long association with racing. Five generations have been directly involved in racing since 1812 with her great great great grandad holding the first public trainers licence and he built Curragh View at the top of Walshe’s hill in 1836. Her grandfather Mick Connolly trained from Westenra for over 50 years and her Dad, Robbie Connolly rode 60 winners and ironically trained 60 winners during his short training career before he passed away from MND aged 31. Vivienne’s Mum, Jacinta, previously worked in the Turf Club Her own personal racing experience is limited to the last few years when she started getting lessons and rode out during Covid lockdown. Vivienne is a primary school teacher in Rathangan and completed the Thoroughbred Exercise and Care course in RACE last summer She rides out before school and has been riding out in Martin Brassil’s yard since October 2022. She never thought it would possible to even apply to take part in the Corinthian Challenge and it is a dream to now look ahead to riding in 3 races, particularly at The Curragh Racecourse having grown up opposite the 5f post! https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/vivienne-connolly

Damien Moore

Damien is a Kildare man, living in Monasterevin whose dream is to ride a winner up the Curragh with his family watching. He is an ex-trainee jockey with over 8 year’s experience in the horse racing industry He worked as a work rider in multiple yards across Ireland and stopped riding to start his own business as a professional horse racing tipster and also has eight racehorses in training in Ireland and the UK. https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/damien-moore

Darren Dunne

Darren, a Meath native hails from Dunboyne and works as a EMC Technician with Compliance Engineering who are his main sponsor for the Corinthian Challenge Series. The support from the company and friends is the reason why he is pushing himself to take on this challenge of a lifetime

He started riding horses in 2015 and rode in the Punchestown Charity race in 2019 for Kidney Research.

Darren was lucky enough to own horses in syndicates on the track and successfully had 2 winners in his own name as an owner in Point to Points which brought on his love of horseracing. He is very much looking forward to riding around Naas, the Curragh and Leopardstown racetracks. https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/darren-dunne

Aimee Murphy

Aimee Murphy is from Newry in County Down and is currently residing in Kildare She has competed in show jumping up to Grand Prix level and has also hunted for many seasons. Amy rides out full time for the past two years and has her own yard. She is currently riding out for Michael Halford, Tracey Collins and Sarah Tobin. https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/aimee-murphy

Abigail Reilly

Abigail Reilly is from Ballymoney in Northern Ireland and has been riding from a very young age She started out showjumping and then moved into a racing yard from 14 years of age which then progressed to breaking and training youngsters. Trained as a plumber, she now rides at the weekends and keeps her fitness up with running and strength training throughout the week. She was encouraged to take part by Samuel Wilson for a bit of craic! She is however taking it seriously and revelling in the challenge, to win a race and to have her family there would be the ultimate dream. https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/abigail-reilly

Hazel Smith

Hazel Smith lives in Athboy, Co Meath, her feet are firmly on the ground even though her profession with Aer Lingus has her clocking up the air miles! She led up one of our previous Corinthian Challenger’s in Leopardstown, Emer Lawlor last year and has already ridden a few amateur races. Encouraged by friends and family, Hazel decided to take up the challenge herself Riding out for Tom Gibney and Tony Martin she has plenty of experience behind her https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/hazel-smith

Anna Cropper

Anna has lived in Kildare for many years. As a child she competed in pony club events and had her own horses. Her love of horses brought her to work full time in racing as a stable hand & exercise rider in both Flat and National Hunt yards in the UK and Ireland. Anna attended the Northern Racing College in Doncaster, gaining NVQ Levels 1-3 & Modern Apprenticeship in Race Horse Care & Management. She has worked for many years with John Oxx and been involved with racing since 1997, she is currently riding out for Martin Brassil and John Hanlon at the weekends and in her spare time https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/anna-cropper

Katy Brown

Katy is originally from the UK but is living in Ireland for many years. She has held a trainers licence the last few years and successfully trained winners both on the Flat and National Hunt in Ireland and the UK. Through the years of working in the industry Katy has seen first-hand the commitment and dedication that jockeys show on a daily basis. She is very excited and extremely grateful to be taking part in this challenge and having the opportunity to ride at some of the most prestigious racetracks in the country

‘’ I can only imagine the buzz to be taking part in the sport as a jockey, a very different angle to what I’m normally used to and to be getting the leg up rather then giving the leg up! ‘’ https://irishinjuredjockeys.enthuse.com/pf/katy-brown

EIGHTH RACE 5.20P.M.

THE CORINTHIAN CHALLENGE CHARITY RACE SERIES

This race will not be started from stalls. (For Race Conditions see page 50)

RACESPONSOR

A representative of The Curragh and Injured Jockeys Fund will present a trophy to the winning rider and mementos to all other riders in the race. They will also present a gift to the groom in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out.

TRIFECTA RACE

Br B g Starspangledbanner (AUS) - Queen Margherita (GB) (TStrap) 34-6052 F

B Newsells Park Stud Damien Moore J

O Keatley Racing, Doherty and Manson Adrian Keatley (in GB) T

He was a good performer on the Flat for the Archie Watson yard and if he can reproduce anything like the pick of those efforts, then he could be the one to beat. Winning Range GY-Gd. Star Rating 5

Noble Anthem 2 flat wins €11,164

Brian Hughes 11.2 (TS) 4 1/2L 2nd to Caithness 11.4 KELSO 12 SEP 7rn mdn hdl 2m 51yds Gd

Hollie Doyle 9.11 (BK) 14L 5th of 7 to Mr Freedom (GB) 9.2 WINDSOR 2 JUL hcp (61-80)1m 3f 99yds Gd /Frm

Miss Brodie Hampson 10.4 23L 13th of 15 to Kihavah (GB) 10.6 YORK 17 JUN hcp (71-90)1m 3f 188yds Gd /Frm

2 DRAKENSBERG (16) 9 12 3 (171)

Br Ch g Samum (GER) - Djidda (GER) (TStrap) 8-00000 F

B Gestut Ebbesloh Hazel Smith J

O G Bryce A J Martin T

Failed to fire on each of his five outings so far this season and he will need to find significant improvement in order to have a say Winning Range GS-GF & AW Star Rating 1

Drakensberg 8 flat wins €47,035.50 D Handicap Rating 53

33/1 HR58 J. Cleary 9.3 (TS) 36L 11th of 13 to Hidden Land (USA) 10.0 DRYL 8 SEP hcp (47-65)1m 4f 175yds Gd

125/1 HR64 R.C. Colgan 9.12 (TS) 16L 14th of 18 to Celebrating Ethel 10.2 LEP 17 AUG hcp (47-70)1m 1f

Rachel O’Neill John Joseph Hanlon T

Makes his debut for the John Joseph Hanlon stable and that will need to spark some improvement following two below-par efforts over hurdles this year. Star Rating 2

Turnaway 1 N.H. win €5,121.80

Miss Heidi Palin 11.4 (CP) p.u. in race won by Ailes d’Amour 11.5

Mr Tristan Durrell 11.9 (CP) 32L 10th of 15 to Fortcanyon 11.4

Bridget Andrews 11.2 (CP) won 2 1/4L 2 1/4L from Pottlerath 11.7 and Telefina (GB) 9.9 TAUNTON 21 DEC 22 11rn hcp hdl (0-105)2m 7f 198yds Gd

5 AURORA PRINCESS (39) 5 12 1 (169) Br B f The Gurkha - Rub A Dub Dub (GB) (TStrap) 506203 F

B Mr Yasushi Kubota Michael O’Neill J

O Mrs A F Mee Emmet Mullins T

She put in a solid display to finish third off a rating of 78 at Gowran Park last time and she warrants plenty of respect in this field. Winning Range Gd. Star Rating 4

B Mr Brian O’Neill

O Ms Bernadette Leigh Peter

Has yet to fire in two starts at Bellewstown and Galway since his return from a long absence and he could find it difficult to get into contention once more He was also engaged to run at Dundalk on Friday evening. Winning Range Gd. Star Rating 2

O Miss Heather Heffernan

Makes his return to the Flat after finishing sixth at Wexford over hurdles, but he is a longstanding

on the level and looks up against it today He was also engaged to run at Listowel on Friday

He has been sent off at huge prices on each of his four starts over hurdles this year and his performances have reflected that, so he will need to find more Star Rating 1

Finished last at Down Royal on his latest outing off a mark of 65 and he will need to show a lot more in order to get involved. Star Rating 2 Le

De Frou Handicap Rating 63

B

S M Rogers & Sir Thomas Pilkington

Didn’t show a great deal at Down Royal off a rating of 47 latest and he will need to take a big step forward to have a say Star Rating 1

Placed in three of 16

g

(GB) - Maid To Master 60-p-07p F

B Saleh Al Homaizi & Imad Al Sagar Eimear O’Gorman J

O Miss Rachel O’Neill

John Joseph Hanlon T

A winner at 1m 6f on good to firm ground, but that win was over three years ago Pulled up at Galway last time over hurdles and he needs to find more Winning Range GF Star Rating 2

Sefton Warrior (GB) 1 flat win €3,272.50

18/1 HR93 J.S. McGarvey 11.12 p.u. in race won by Delias Pet 10.8 GAL 11 SEP 17rn hcp hdl (80-95)2m 6f 55yds Sft

Mr Paddy Hanlon 11.0 (TS) 20L last of 7 to Owens Lad (GB) 10.5 CARLISLE 23 AUG hcp (46-60)1m 3f 39yds Gd /Frm

Mr Paddy Hanlon 9.13 (TS) 5L 10th of 11 to Let Her Loose 11.4 CATTERICK BRIDGE 21 AUG

Placed once in nine starts. Fifth at Tramore in a maiden hurdle in June before another fifth in this sphere at Naas. She will need to step up Star Rating 1

13

RESERVES

of 12fn, 19rn to Western Comandor 10.13 DRYL 17 MAR mdn hdl 2m 190yds Sft/Hvy

TStrap worn by No 1, No 2, No 5, No 8.

Probable Starting Prices - 2/1 Aurora Princess, 9/4 Noble Anthem, 4/1 Stuzzikini, 10/1 Le Comte De Frou, 14/1 Dance Emperor, Sefton Warrior (GB), Fair Damsel, 16/1 Turnaway, 20/1 Drakensberg, 50/1 Manwal, 66/1 Derby De Thaix (FR), Hi Sur Multi (GB)

2022 - (2 min. 42.8 sec.)

CURRAGH COMMENT

NOBLE ANTHEM was a fair performer on the Flat for Archie Watson and he ran well in a first-time tongue-tie on his first start for the Adrian Paul Keatley yard when second at Kelso over hurdles 12 days ago. The son of Starspangledbanner could have too much class for these. Stuzzikini is a live danger, as he has run well enough in fifth on both of his starts on the Flat to suggest he could get involved in this contest, while Aurora Princess could also have a say after her third at Gowran Park.

WIN: NOBLE ANTHEM

DANGER: Stuzzikini

CONDITIONS

FIRST RACE 1.20p.m. The Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden of €25,000 (Median Auction Race) (IRE Incentive Scheme Bonus Race) (Generously sponsored by the Irish EBF (€11,000)) Winner will receive €15,000 (Penalty Value: €14,750) Second will receive €5,000, Third will receive €2,500, Fourth will receive €1,250, Fifth will receive €750, Sixth will receive €500 For two years old only, maidens at starting that are EBF eligible and whose sire established one or more yearling sales in the relevant year with a median price of not more than €75,000 About 1 mile €225 to enter, €25 extra if declared to run. Weights: 9st 8lbs. Fillies allowed 5lbs. Allowances - (which are not cumulative) If median price established by the sire is not more than €60,000 allowed 2lb; If median price established by the sire is not more than €45,000 allowed 4lb; If median price established by the sire is not more than €30,000 allowed 6lb; If median price established by the sire is not more than €15,000 allowed 8lb (The owner of an Irish-bred winner of this race will receive an IRE Incentive Scheme Sales Voucher of €10,000. See RAS for full terms & conditions of this scheme) Value to winner: €14750; Second: €5000; Third: €2500; Fourth: €1250; Fifth: €750; Sixth: €500 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race Starting from stalls.

SEE PAGE 16 FOR THIS RACE

SECOND RACE 1.50p.m. The Pat ‘The Duke’ Leavy Irish EBF Maiden of €16,500 (Generously sponsored by the Leavy family and the Irish EBF (€3,000)) Winner will receive €9,900 (Penalty Value: €9,735) Second will receive €3,300 Third will receive €1,650 Fourth will receive €825, Fifth will receive €495, Sixth will receive €330 For two years old only, maidens at starting that are EBF eligible About 7 furlongs. €148.50 to enter, €16.50 extra if declared to run. Weights: 9st 7lbs. Fillies allowed 5lbs. Value to winner: €9735; Second: €3300; Third: €1650; Fourth: €825; Fifth: €495; Sixth: €330 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race Starting from stalls.

SEE PAGE 22 FOR THIS RACE

THIRD RACE 2.25p.m. The Weld Park Stakes of €55,000 (Group 3) (Generously sponsored by Mr D.K. Weld) Winner will receive €33,000 (Penalty Value: €32,450) Second will receive €11,000, Third will receive €5,500, Fourth will receive €2,750, Fifth will receive €1,650, Sixth will receive €1,100 For two years old fillies only About 7 furlongs. €495 to enter, €55 extra if declared to run. Weights: 9st 2lbs. Penalties - Winner of a Group 3 race 3lb extra; Of two Group 3 races or a Group 2 race 5lb extra; Of a Group 1 race 7lb extra. Value to winner: €32450; Second: €11000; Third: €5500; Fourth: €2750; Fifth: €1650; Sixth: €1100 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race. Starting from stalls.

SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE

FOURTH RACE 3.00p.m. The Westgrove Hotel Renaissance Stakes of €52,500 (Group 3)

(Generously sponsored by The Westgrove Hotel, Clane) Winner will receive €31,500 (Penalty Value: €30,975) Second will receive €10,500, Third will receive €5,250, Fourth will receive €2,625, Fifth will receive €1,575, Sixth will receive €1,050 For three years old and upwards. About 6 furlongs. €315 to enter on August 30th; €210 extra if forfeit not declared by September 19th or €5,250 if entered by September 19th. Weights: 3-y-o 9st 5lbs; 4-y-o and up 9st 7lbs. Fillies allowed 3lbs. Penalties - (to count from 1st January, 2023) Winner of a Group 3 race 3lb extra; Of two Group 3 races or of a Group 2 race 5lb extra; Of a Group 1 race 7lb extra. Value to winner: €30975; Second: €10500; Third: €5250; Fourth: €2625; Fifth: €1575; Sixth: €1050 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race Stalls centre of course

SEE PAGE 30 FOR THIS RACE

FIFTH RACE 3.35p.m. The Fitzpatrick’s Garage Group Nursery Handicap of €15,000 (Generously sponsored by Fitzpatrick’s Garage, Kildare Town) Winner will receive €9,000 (Penalty Value: €8,850) Second will receive €3,000, Third will receive €1,500, Fourth will receive €750, Fifth will receive €450, Sixth will receive €300 An extended handicap for two years old only (80 = 9st 12lbs). About 7 furlongs. €135 to enter, €15 extra if declared to run. Penalties - (after calculation of the handicap) A winner shall carry 7lb extra for each race won. Horses which receive a published weight of 8st 6lbs or less will be entitled to a 50% reduction in entry fee Should they be declared to run they will then become liable for the full amount of the cost to run. Value to winner: €8850; Second: €3000; Third: €1500; Fourth: €750; Fifth: €450; Sixth: €300 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race. Weights raised by 5lbs. Handicaps calculated 19th September

Starting from stalls.

SEE PAGE 32 FOR THIS RACE

SIXTH RACE 4.10p.m. The Friends Of The Curragh Irish Cesarewitch of €600,000 (0-110) (Premier Handicap)

(Generously sponsored by the Friends Of The Curragh) Winner will receive €330,000 (Penalty Value: €324,000) Second will receive €120,000 Third will receive €60,000 Fourth will receive €30,000 Fifth will receive €18,000 Sixth will receive €12,000, Seventh will receive €9,000, Eighth will receive €9,000, Ninth will receive €6,000, Tenth will receive €6,000 An extended handicap for three years old and upwards rated 0-110 that have run four or more times under any Rules of Racing on or before 7th August, 2023, and that have had at least one run over a distance of eleven furlongs or more between 1st August, 2022 and 18th September, 2023 inclusive. About 2 miles 165 yards. €1,500 to enter on August 2nd; €1,500 extra if forfeit not declared by August 23rd; €1,500 extra if forfeit not declared by September 19th and €1,500 extra if declared to run. Penalties – (after calculation of the handicap) Winner of a race 7lb extra; Of two or more races 10lb extra. HRI Directive 6.3 (i) is suspended for the purpose of this race In the event of the top weight remaining prior to the preliminary ballot being less than 10st 2lb, it shall be raised to that weight and all of the other horses shall be raised by an equal amount. (Penalties incurred by winning after the calculation of the weights shall be added to the weight of the horse as originally published before the raising of weights) The preliminary ballot will then be made in accordance with HRI Directive 10 (3.2) except the winners of The Lilywhites Handicap at the Curragh on June 7th, 2023, The Ulster Derby Handicap at Down Royal on June 24th, 2023, The Connacht (Q.R.) Handicap at Galway on July 31st, 2023, The Kingdom Gold Cup Handicap at Killarney on August 24th, 2023 and The Petingo Handicap at Leopardstown on September 9th, 2023 which shall be exempt from the ballot if their weight is 8st 7lb or above The Directors of the IHRB have suspended the relevant sections of Rules 194 and 195 for the purpose of this race. Any horse entered in this race which has not run in a race over a distance of eleven furlongs or more between 1st August, 2022 and 18th September, 2023 inclusive will be automatically struck out of the race on 19th September. Handicaps calculated 8th August. Value to winner: €324000; Second: €120000; Third: €60000; Fourth: €30000; Fifth: €18000; Sixth: €12000; Seventh: €9000; Eighth: €9000; Ninth: €6000; Tenth: €6000 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race This race WILL be started from stalls.

SEE

PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE

SEVENTH RACE 4.45p.m. The Friends Of The Curragh Pollardstown Handicap of €60,000 (0-95)

(Generously sponsored by the Friends of the Curragh) Winner will receive €36,000 (Penalty Value: €35,400) Second will receive €12,000, Third will receive €6,000, Fourth will receive €3,000, Fifth will receive €1,800, Sixth will receive €1,200 An extended handicap for three years old and upwards rated 0-95 that at entry have run three or more times under any Rules of Racing, at least one of those runs having been over a distance of eleven furlongs or more on or after 1st August, 2022. About 2 miles 165 yards. €540 to enter, €60 extra if declared to run. Penalties - (after calculation of the handicap) A winner shall carry 7lb extra for each race won. Value to winner: €35400; Second: €12000; Third: €6000; Fourth: €3000; Fifth: €1800; Sixth: €1200 Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race. Weights raised by 1lb. Handicaps calculated 19th September This race WILL be started from stalls.

SEE PAGE 40 FOR THIS RACE

EIGHTH RACE 5.20p.m. The Corinthian Challenge Charity Race Series (All proceeds to the Irish Injured Jockeys) (A Private Sweepstakes Charity Race Series with an entry fee of €10,000 per Rider) For three years old and upwards which have run at least three times under the Rules of Racing or I.N.H.S Rules (Point to Point Steeplechases excluded). About 1 mile 4 furlongs. Weights: 3-y-o 11st 3lbs, 4-y-o and up 12st. Fillies allowed 5lbs. Penalties - (to count from 1st January, 2022) Winner of a *race to carry 3lbs extra for each race won. (Maximum penalty 9lbs) *Including any race under any National Hunt Rules or Rules of Racing. Horses that require to be led to the start will NOT be permitted to take part. Blinkers, Visor, Hood, Eye Shield, Eyecover, Sheepskin Cheekpieces or any similar device are NOT permitted. Tongue Ties are allowed to be worn and must be declared at time of declaration. Entries for horses that are not returned in training at time of entry will not be permitted. Riders: To qualify as a Rider and to participate in this race you must either hold an A1 Amateur Rider’s Licence or have successfully completed a Charity Race one day Competency Assessment at R.A.C.E. and have passed a Medical with a Turf Club approved Doctor (only if required). Riders shall not have ridden more than 3 winners on the racecourse to be eligible It is strictly subject to attaining the above qualification that a Rider’s entry will be accepted. N.B. The mandatory percentage deductions shall not apply to this race A horse which has won a Private Sweepstakes shall not on that account incur a penalty or be debarred from claiming any allowance or from taking part in any race Horses that run in this race do not lose their eligibility to run in Point-to-Point Steeplechases. The winning jockey will receive a trophy and each rider will receive a memento of no intrinsic value The groom in charge of the winning horse will receive €100 and the groom in charge of the best turned out horse in this race will receive €100 Riders who have not forwarded their Donations/Sponsorship Fee to the Irish Injured Jockeys as per agreed schedule will be considered ineligible to participate in this race Speed sensing equipment will be used in this race This race will not be started from stalls.

SEE PAGE 46 FOR THIS RACE