The following two horses were entered for the Betfred Derby at today’s £12,000 second entry stage:

Dallas Star (FR) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Adrian Murray Ireland
Hidden Law (IRE) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Betfred Derby (Group 1) 1m 4f 6y

Epsom Downs, Saturday 1st June
Almaqam 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Ed Walker
Al Musmak (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah Roger Varian
Ambiente Friendly (IRE) 3 9 2 The Gredley Family James Fanshawe
Ancient Wisdom (FR) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby
Anzac Day (IRE) 3 9 2 Brook Farm Bloodstock Andrew Balding
Arabian Crown (FR) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby
Arabic Legend (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum K. R. Burke
Bellum Justum (IRE) 3 9 2 King Power Racing Co Ltd Andrew Balding
Capulet (USA) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Caviar Heights (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum K. R. Burke
Champagne Prince 3 9 2 Mr P. W. Harris Jane Chapple-Hyam
City of Troy (USA) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Clean Energy (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs J. S. Bolger J. S. Bolger Ireland
Dallas Star (FR) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Adrian Murray Ireland
Dancing Gemini (IRE) 3 9 2 Fishdance Ltd Roger Teal
Defiance (IRE) 3 9 2 Highclere Thoroughbred Racing – Monet Roger Varian
Deira Mile (IRE) 3 9 2 Green Team Racing Owen Burrows
Diego Velazquez (IRE) 3 9 2 Smith,Magnier,Tabor,Westerberg,Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Economics 3 9 2 Isa Salman Al Khalifa William Haggas
Endless Victory 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby
Euphoric 3 9 2 Smith,Magnier,Tabor,Westerberg,Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Feigning Madness 3 9 2 Valmont Ralph Beckett
Galen 3 9 2 P.Redmond/T.Fitzgerald/A.O’Brien/BFowler Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
Gasper de Lemos (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Ghostwriter (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Clive Cox
God’s Window 3 9 2 Cayton Park Stud Limited John & Thady Gosden
Golden West 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum K. R. Burke
Grosvenor Square (IRE) 3 9 2 M Tabor/D Smith/Mrs J Magnier/Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Harper’s Ferry 3 9 2 M H Dixon & J L Rowsell Ed Walker
Henry Longfellow (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Hidden Law (IRE) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby
Highbury (FR) 3 9 2 Westerberg,Coolmore,Brant,Dubois Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Illinois (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Kamboo (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Abdulla Al Mansoori Richard Hughes
Las Ramblas 3 9 2 Ballylinch Stud Roger Varian
London City (USA) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Los Angeles (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Macduff 3 9 2 Juddmonte Ralph Beckett
Marty The Party (IRE) 3 9 2 Connolly Racing Syndicate J. A. Stack Ireland
Matsuri 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Roger Varian
Meydaan (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Simon & Ed Crisford
Mina Rashid 3 9 2 Ahmad Al Shaikh Andrew Balding
Mission To Mars (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Saeed Suhail Sir Michael Stoute
Mountain Bear (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Mr Hampstead (USA) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Roger Varian
No Retreat (IRE) 3 9 2 Victorious Racing Roger Varian
Ocean of Dreams (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Ortelius (USA) 3 9 2 D.Smith,Mrs J.Magnier,M.Tabor,Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Padesha (FR) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited
Pappano 3 9 2 Ms Rachel D. S. Hood John & Thady Gosden
Portland (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Prince Rasam 3 9 2 East 11 Limited Michael Bell
Quatre Bras (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr P. W. Harris Jane Chapple-Hyam
Raja Raja 3 9 2 Chola Dynasty David Simcock
Roadshow (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor A. Fabre France
Roi de France (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr B. E. Nielsen John & Thady Gosden
Salamanca 3 9 2 Mr P. W. Harris Jane Chapple-Hyam
Sam Hawkens (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg Richard Hannon
Sardinian Warrior (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Marc Chan John & Thady Gosden
Sayedaty Sadaty (IRE) 3 9 2 Ahmad Al Shaikh Andrew Balding
Spoken Truth (IRE) 3 9 2 Moyglare Stud Farms Ltd D. K. Weld Ireland
Stromberg 3 9 2 Teme Valley Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
The Euphrates 3 9 2 Brant/Magnier/Tabor/Westerberg/Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
The Reverend 3 9 2 Tony Bloom & Ian McAleavy William Haggas
Under The Sun 3 9 2 Al Asayl Bloodstock Ltd Hugo Palmer
Valvano (IRE) 3 9 2 Valmont Ralph Beckett
Voyage 3 9 2 Mrs J. Wood Richard Hannon
War Rooms (IRE) 3 9 2 Brook Farm Bloodstock Owen Burrows
Wind River (IRE) 3 9 2 The Megsons Ed Dunlop

The following 5 entries have been scratched: Alrazeen (IRE), Common Defense (USA), Deepone, Justin Milano (JPN), Navy Seal (IRE)

69 entries go forward
22 Irish-trained
1 French-trained

Race Conditions

Total prize fund £1,500,000

For three-year-old colts and fillies only

Enter by noon, February 27th

Second Entry by noon, April 24th

First scratchings deadline by noon on May 7th

Second scratchings deadline by noon on May 21st

Five-day confirmation & supplementary entry stage May 27th

Final declaration stage by 10.00, May 30th

Weights: Colts 9st 2lb; fillies 8st 13lb

Horses will only be eligible to run in this race provided that they have a current BHA Handicap Rating of 80 or higher at midday of the confirmation stage.

Horses which do not qualify for a rating may also be eligible providing the BHA Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances up to and including 29th May merit a provisional assessment of 80 or higher. Horses which have not run will not be eligible.

The winning horse in The Betfred Derby ‘Wild Card’ EBF Conditions
Stakes run at Epsom Downs on 1 October 2023 and in the Blue Riband Trial, run at the Spring Meeting at Epsom Downs on 23 April 2024, if not a gelding or already entered, will
receive an automatic entry to this race on the proviso that, should the horse remain in The Betfred Derby after the subsequent scratching stages on May 7th and May 21st and confirmation stage on May 27th, the owner will be liable to meet the corresponding payments respectively. In the event of a dead-heat in any of these races, both horses will receive an automatic entry to The Betfred Derby.

This race also forms part of the 2024 Churchill Downs ‘Wild Card’ Scheme. A runner from the American Turf Stakes, (Grade 2, 1m 0.5f. $500,000), run on Kentucky Derby Day (Saturday 4th May), will receive an entry and a travel incentive to run in The Betfred Derby.

This race will be restricted to 20 runners plus two reserves. The two reserves will be nominated as R21 and R22.

The post List of entries for the 2024 Epsom Derby appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The latest entries for the QIPCO 2000 and 1000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket highlight the strong presence of Irish-trained runners. Following today’s scratchings deadline, there remain 21 entries in the 2000 Guineas with five Irish-trained horses, while the 1000 Guineas includes 27 entries, featuring ten Irish-trained runners.

Notable entries in the 2000 Guineas include heavy odds on favorite City of Troy, Diego Velazquez, Henry Longfellow, and River Tiber, all trained by the renowned Aidan O’Brien.

In the 1000 Guineas, notable Irish-trained entries such as Ylang Ylang, Brilliant, Buttons, Content, and Everlasting also hail from O’Brien’s stables, promising a strong showing from Ireland.

3.35pm, Saturday 4^th May

Al Musmak (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah Roger Varian

Alyanaabi (IRE) 3 9 2 Shadwell Estate Company Ltd Owen Burrows

Ancient Wisdom (FR) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Ballymount Boy (IRE) 3 9 2 Wathnan Racing Adrian Keatley

Bucanero Fuerte 3 9 2 AMO Racing Limited/Giselle De Aguiar Adrian Murray Ireland

City of Troy (USA) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Dancing Gemini (IRE) 3 9 2 Fishdance Ltd Roger Teal

Diego Velazquez (IRE) 3 9 2 Smith,Magnier,Tabor,Westerberg,Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Eben Shaddad (USA) 3 9 2 HRH Prince Faisal Bin Khaled & Najd Stud John & Thady Gosden

Ghostwriter (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Clive Cox

Haatem (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah Richard Hannon

Henry Longfellow (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Iberian (IRE) 3 9 2 Teme Valley & Ballylinch Stud Charles Hills

Inisherin 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Kevin Ryan

Night Raider (IRE) 3 9 2 Clipper K. R. Burke

Notable Speech 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

River Tiber (IRE) 3 9 2 Tabor/Smith/Magnier/Westerberg/Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Rosallion (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Richard Hannon

Sayedaty Sadaty (IRE) 3 9 2 Ahmad Al Shaikh Andrew Balding

Task Force 3 9 2 Juddmonte Ralph Beckett

Ten Bob Tony (IRE) 3 9 2 TBT Racing Limited Ed Walker

21 entries remain after April 23^rd scratchings deadline

5 Irish-trained

QIPCO 1000 Guineas Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) 1m

3:40pm, Sunday 5^th May

Brilliant (IRE) 3 9 2 D.Smith,Mrs J.Magnier,M.Tabor,Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Buttons (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Cinderella’s Dream 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Content (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Dance Sequence 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Darnation (IRE) 3 9 2 Newtown Anner Stud Farm K. R. Burke

Elmalka 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Roger Varian

Everlasting (IRE) 3 9 2 M Tabor/D Smith/Mrs J Magnier/Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Fallen Angel 3 9 2 Clipper K. R. Burke

Finsceal Luas (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Michael A Ryan J. S. Bolger Ireland

Kitty Rose 3 9 2 Mr Tim Porter Mick Price and Michael Kent Jr Australia

Lunar Eclipse (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Juma Dalmook Al Maktoum David Simcock

Manhattan Dreamer (USA) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Adrian Murray Ireland

One Look (IRE) 3 9 2 Connolly Racing Syndicate P. Twomey Ireland

Persian Dreamer (USA) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Dominic Ffrench Davis

Porta Fortuna (IRE) 3 9 2 Medallion/S Weston/B Fowler/Reeves T’Bs Donnacha Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Purple Lily (IRE) 3 9 2 Zinlo Syndicate P. Twomey Ireland

Ramatuelle (USA) 3 9 2 Infinity 9 Horses/C. W. Knok Christopher Head France

Regal Jubilee 3 9 2 Cheveley Park Stud John & Thady Gosden

Rolica (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr P. W. Harris Jane Chapple-Hyam

Sacred Angel (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Nurlan Bizakov Charlie Johnston

See The Fire 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Andrew Balding

Star Music 3 9 2 Mr Jaber Abdullah Richard Hughes

Star Style 3 9 2 Mrs J. Wood Richard Hannon

Tamfana (GER) 3 9 2 Quantum Leap Racing VIII & Friends David Menuisier

True Cyan (IRE) 3 9 2 KHK Racing Roger Varian

Ylang Ylang 3 9 2 Magnier,Tabor,Smith,Brant,Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

27 entries remain after April 23^rd scratchings deadline

10 Irish-trained

1 French-trained

1 Australian-trained

The post List of Irish runners dominate entries for the English 1000 & 2000 Guineass 2024 appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

In the hands of Colin Keane, the now four-year-old, was a neck winner over Maxux (9/2) from the Joseph O’Brien stable, with the Jessica Harrington-trained Village Voice (4/1) a further half-length back in third.

The Tattersalls Gold Cup back at The Curragh is now a likely target for the Joseph Murphy-handled son of Ulysses.

White Birch is BACK!

The gorgeous grey wins on his seasonal debut in the https://t.co/U91pumStve Alleged Stakes (Group 3) under @ctkjockey for trainer John Joseph Murphy @thetotecom | @ToteRacing pic.twitter.com/9yQHE22svd

— The Curragh Racecourse (@curraghrace) April 20, 2024

The win was the second part of a double for rider Colin Keane, who earlier successfully teamed up with his father, Gerry, when race topweight Crystal Black (4/1) landed the Hytech Eq Ultra Handicap over a mile.

The gelded son of Teofilo battled on under 10 stone to beat Earls by a short-nose, with a further short-head back to Casanova in third.

Zaynab (10/1) gave Irish National Stud stallion Phoenix Of Spain his third winner of the week, when appropriately claiming the Nando Parrado at the Irish National Stud Irish EBF Maiden on Saturday.

In colours more usually seen at a National Hunt meeting, those of Bective Stud, the Gordon Elliott-trained three-year-old battled at the death to beat the race favourite, Igor Stravinsky (15/8f), on the line.

Bid For Chester (4/1) landed the Download The New Tote App Rated Race for Limerick rider Wesley Joyce and trainer Mick Mulvaney.

Chemistry won at the second time of asking for Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore as the son of Kingman broke his maiden as 8/13 favourite.

Chemistry (Kingman) finds the right formula up in trip in the @IrishNatStud @IrishEBF_ Maiden for Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien at @curraghrace pic.twitter.com/kxUdSt2Rwp

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 20, 2024

The post White Birch wins Alleged Stakes on seasonal debut appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Randox Grand National (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y The Jockey Club announces today The Randox Grand National at Aintree Racecourse will have a new earlier start time of 4pm from this year.

Confirmation of the new time comes as a total of 94 horses were entered for the 176th running of the world’s greatest steeplechase on Saturday 13th April at today’s noon deadline.

The switch from 5.15pm is one of several changes to the £1 million showpiece first announced nearly four months ago as part of an ongoing focus on equine welfare.

Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y – 4:00pm, Aintree, Saturday 13th April

RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL FESTIVAL NEWS: PROVISIONAL DECLARATIONS FOR THE 2024 RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL

Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y

4.00pm, Saturday 13th April

Current Going: Heavy, Soft in places

1 Noble Yeats (IRE) ts, p 9 11 12 Mr Robert Waley-Cohen Emmet Mullins Ireland Harry Cobden
2 Nassalam (FR) bl 7 11 8 John and Yvonne Stone Gary Moore Caoilin Quinn
3 Coko Beach (FR) bl 9 11 8 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
4 Capodanno (FR) ts 8 11 8 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Keith Donoghue
5 I Am Maximus (FR) 8 11 6 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland P. Townend
6 Minella Indo (IRE) 11 11 6 Mr Barry Maloney Henry de Bromhead Ireland Rachael Blackmore
7 Corach Rambler (IRE) ts 10 11 6 The Ramblers Lucinda Russell Derek Fox
8 Janidil (FR) ts, p 10 11 6 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Jody McGarvey
9 Stattler (IRE) ts 9 11 5 Mr R. A. Bartlett W. P. Mullins Ireland Mr P. W. Mullins
10 Mahler Mission (IRE) ts 8 11 5 Colm Herron & Rockview Racing Syndicate John McConnell Ireland Ben Harvey

11 Delta Work (FR) bl,ts 11 11 4 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
12 Foxy Jacks (IRE) p 10 11 4 Ms Rachel Carthy M. F. Morris Ireland Gavin Brouder
13 Galvin (IRE) 10 11 2 Mr R. A. Bartlett Gordon Elliott Ireland
14 Farouk d’Alene (FR) 9 11 1 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
15 Eldorado Allen (FR) ts 10 11 00 J P Romans & Terry Warner Joe Tizzard Brendan Powell
16 Ain’t That A Shame (IRE) 10 10 13 Mr David Maxwell Henry de Bromhead Ireland Mr David Maxwell
17 Vanillier (FR) ts, p 9 10 12 Mrs H. M. Keaveney Gavin Cromwell Ireland Sean Flanagan
18 Mr Incredible (IRE) 8 10 11 Paul Byrne & J. Carthy W. P. Mullins Ireland Brian Hayes
19 Run Wild Fred (IRE) bl 10 10 10 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
20 Latenightpass 11 10 10 Mrs P. A. Ellis Tom Ellis Miss Gina Andrews

21 Minella Crooner (IRE) p 8 10 10 KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran Gordon Elliott Ireland
22 Adamantly Chosen (IRE) 7 10 9 Watch This Space Syndicate W. P. Mullins Ireland Sean O’Keeffe
23 Mac Tottie ts 11 10 9 Steve & Jackie Fleetham Peter Bowen James Bowen
24 Chemical Energy (IRE) 8 10 9 Bective Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
25 Limerick Lace (IRE) 7 10 8 Mr John P. McManus Gavin Cromwell Ireland Mark Walsh
26 Meetingofthewaters (IRE) h 7 10 8 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Daniel Mullins
27 The Goffer (IRE) ts 7 10 8 Mr Allan Snow Gordon Elliott Ireland
28 Roi Mage (FR) 12 10 8 Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont Patrick Griffin Ireland James Reveley
29 Glengouly (FR) 8 10 7 Roaringwater Syndicate W. P. Mullins Ireland M. J. M. O’Sullivan
30 Galia des Liteaux (FR) p 8 10 7 Mr Michael Ariss Dan Skelton Harry Skelton

31 Panda Boy (IRE) p 8 10 7 Old Pals Partnership Martin Brassil Ireland
32 Eklat de Rire (FR) 10 10 7 Mr P. Davies Henry de Bromhead Ireland Darragh O’Keeffe
33 Chambard (FR) 12 10 7 David & Carol Shaw Venetia Williams Miss Lucy Turner
34 Kitty’s Light ts, p 8 10 7 R J Bedford & All Stars Sports Racing Christian Williams Jack Tudor

34 runners
26 Irish-trained

Eliminated
Malina Girl (IRE), Desertmore House (IRE), Kinondo Kwetu, Shakem Up’arry (IRE), Ontheropes (IRE), Fakir d’Alene (FR), Annual Invictus (IRE), Amirite (IRE), Tullybeg (IRE), Iron Bridge (IRE), Cepage (FR), Famous Bridge (IRE), Frontal Assault (IRE), Good Boy Bobby (IRE), Tommie Beau (IRE), Where It All Began (IRE)

The post List of runners, riders and weights for the 2024 Aintree Grand National appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

With the official going at Aintree currently being described as ‘soft, heavy in places’, and Storm Kathleen expected to batter the area in the build up to the Festival, owners and trainers alike will have to take difficult decisions as to whether to pull their horses out of the race at the final moment.

But while the bad weather spells problems for many, there are a few mudlarks that’ll absolutely revel in the difficult conditions. Here are three Grand National runners to keep a close eye on if the poor weather extends deep into the week.
Nassalam

Nassalam really came to everyone’s attention as a potential Grand National winner in December. Having already won the Welsh National trial on heavy Chepstow ground earlier in the month, he went on to dominate the Welsh Grand National too. Nassalam took a field of 19 horses apart, winning by a remarkable 34 lengths, so don’t be put off by his more recent showing at Cheltenham.
Delta Work

Many watchers of the Grand National will already be familiar with Delta Work, given he came home third in the 2022 running of the famous race. He followed that impressive showing up with a big win at the Cheltenham Festival, securing the Cross Country Chase in 2023 on soft ground. Detractors may say he’ll be past his best as an 11 year old, but the cancellation of this year’s Cross Country Chase ensures Delta Work will head to Aintree fresher than in previous years.
I Am Maximus

Of all this year’s Grand National favourites, I Am Maximus could be the one to benefit most from softer ground. None of his last 11 runs have been on ground better than soft, so a sapping four miler at Aintree should prove far less daunting than for many of his rivals. Irish horse racing fans may recall I Am Maximus winning the 2023 Irish National on soft ground at Fairyhouse, and he was most recently seen taking the Bobbyjo Chase by 14 lengths under soft to heavy conditions.

The post Three Grand National horses to follow as rain descends on Aintree appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

As anticipation builds for the BoyleSports Irish Grand National on Easter Monday, the latest confirmation stage has solidified the lineup, leaving all top contenders in contention for the prestigious title. Among the frontrunners stands Nick Rockett, the 7-2 favorite, poised to lead Willie Mullins’ charge in the illustrious event.

Nick Rockett, backed by Paddy Power, emerges as a formidable force following his recent second-place finish to American Mike in a Navan Grade 2 encounter. Mullins, eyeing his third victory in five years, could further bolster his arsenal with Grade 1 winner Minella Cocooner and We’llhavewan. Notable contenders such as Intense Raffles and Desertmore House add to the race’s allure.

Gavin Cromwell’s duo, Hartur D’Arc and Yeah Man, promise stiff competition, while Gordon Elliott’s potential nine-strong lineup, including Grade 2 victor Favori De Champdou, ensures a thrilling showdown. Henry de Bromhead’s lone entry, Senior Chief, adds an element of surprise to the mix.

In a bid for redemption, Sir Gerhard aims to bounce back from a lackluster Stayers’ Hurdle performance at Cheltenham Festival, eyeing the Rathbarry & Glenview Studs Hurdle Grade 2 alongside stablemates Zarak The Brave and Asterion Forlonge. The British contingent, led by the intriguing Brewin’upastorm, promises to intensify the competition.

Furthermore, Fairyhouse’s card features additional highlights, including the Grade 2m juvenile hurdle and the Grade 2 Chase, showcasing top talents such as Appreciate It and Ash Tree Meadow. With an array of contenders vying for glory, the BoyleSports Irish Grand National promises an exhilarating display of talent and determination.

BoyleSports Irish Grand National latest entries

Farouk D’Alene Gordon Elliott
Minella Cocooner Willie Mullins
Churchstonewarrior Jonathan Sweeney
Nick Rockett Willie Mullins
Favori De Champdou Gordon Elliott
Desertmore House Martin Brassil
Run Wild Fred Gordon Elliott
Senior Chief Henry de Bromhead
Any Second Now Ted Walsh
Intense Raffles Thomas Gibney
Macs Charm Colm Murphy
Yeah Man Gavin Cromwell
Diol Ker Gordon Elliott
Dunboyne Gordon Elliott
Hartur D’Arc Gavin Cromwell
Frontal Assault Gordon Elliott
Where It All Began Gordon Elliott
Cool Survivor Gordon Elliott
Good Time Jonny Tony Martin
Street Value John Flavin
Digby Dermot McLoughlin
Daily Present Paul Nolan
Royal Thief Gordon Elliott
We’llhavewan Willie Mullins
Where’s Frankie Karl Thornton
History Of Fashion Peter Fahy

Paddy Power: 7-2 Nick Rockett, 6 Intense Raffles, 8 Desertmore House, 9 Hartur D’Arc, 10 Yeah Man, 11 Senior Chief, 12 Any Second Now, We’llhavewan, 16 bar

The post List of Runners for The 2024 Irish Grand National – 1st April appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Nina Carberry, one of Ireland’s most successful female riders, is set to swap the racecourse for the political field as the former champion amateur will run as a candidate for Fine Gael in the European elections this June.

Since retiring from race-riding in 2018 after winning on the Enda Bolger-trained Josies Orders at the Punchestown festival, Carberry has remained in the spotlight and won the hit TV show Dancing With The Stars in 2022, proving she remained as popular as ever with the public. She also appeared as a coach on the RTE sports show, Ireland’s Fittest Family.

Carberry, who rode seven festival winners at Cheltenham, will stand in the Midlands-North West constituency which stretches from her native Meath across the Midlands to Galway and up to Donegal. There are five seats on offer in that polling area, one more than in 2019.

Speaking about her decision to enter politics, Carberry said: “In the Ireland and Europe of today, it is more important than ever for those who believe they can make a difference to put their hand up to make things happen. As a mother of two, that is why I want to contest the European Elections for Fine Gael this June to ensure a bright future for all.
“Across Europe, rural areas encounter unique difficulties, and this holds even truer for an island off the European coast. I want to be a champion for balanced regional development, making sure every town and village has access to the services and infrastructure that allow people to live and work locally. I also want to connect and restore communities by supporting the work of the many voluntary groups and businesses to create vibrant spaces across the region.”
She added: “Farmers and small businesses do so much for our communities and Europe can do a lot for them. I want to reduce the burden on farmers and businesses by simplifying the red tape they need to complete to access support.

“For me, one of the great advantages of the European project is free movement for students, providing access to a wide variety of educational opportunities. It is important to protect this. As somebody who has a keen interest in skills development, I want to see the development of a cross-European apprentice scheme that could benefit the sharing of skills and ideas to create more opportunities for our young people.””

The post Famous former Jockey to run for European elections appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The Irish Flat season kicks off at the Curragh today amidst heavy going, following 1mm of rain in the last 24 hours. Met Eireann predicts a dry morning, with light rain expected in the afternoon, potentially bringing 3-5mm of rainfall. The racing action commences with the first of eight races scheduled to start at 1:35 pm.

The opening two-year-old maiden of the season surprisingly doesn’t have an Aidan O’Brien runner with Adrian Murray looking to win the prize with one of his three runners after his stable star Bucanero Fuerte won the race last year. The Amo Racing, David Egan ridden Arizona Blue looks the most likely of the three to win.

Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire Anticipation

Fozzy Stack’s Chazzesmee leads the market for the Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire at 4:10 pm, following a commendable runner-up performance last July. Meanwhile, Simply Sideways, a key contender for trainer Tim Doyle, aims to capitalize on her impressive form from the previous season, boasting five handicap wins in 2023.

Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes Highlight

The Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes, set to commence at 3:40 pm, promises to be one of the highlights of the day. The Group 3 contest for fillies and mares features notable contenders such as Brilliant and Everlasting, both showing promise for the season ahead.

The field includes promising talents like Goldana and You Send Me, showcasing potential for further improvement. Mammas Girl, winner of the Nell Gwyn Stakes, debuts under Adrian Murray’s guidance, adding intrigue to the race. Additionally, Cadeau Belle and Sli Na Ghealai aim to make an impact, alongside other contenders vying for victory in this prestigious event.

The post Preview – Exciting Start to the Irish Flat Season at the Curragh appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Aidan O’Brien’s relentless pursuit of excellence at Ballydoyle resonates profoundly with the mantra “Better never stops.” As he gears up for the upcoming season, O’Brien, now 54, aims to defend his title as Ireland’s champion flat trainer for the 27th time, with a remarkable streak of 25 consecutive victories. Moreover, his quest for global success shows no signs of slowing down.

Season Highlights and Milestones

The 2023 campaign was nothing short of remarkable for O’Brien. Notable achievements included Auguste Rodin’s victory in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, marking O’Brien’s 100th European Classic victory. Additionally, Henry Longfellow’s triumph in the Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes marked O’Brien’s 4000th career win, a testament to his enduring success on the global stage.

Relentless Focus and Commitment

Despite these milestones, O’Brien remains steadfast in his approach, with a refusal to dwell on past successes. He emphasizes the importance of staying fully focused and committed every single day, with no room for complacency. O’Brien’s relentless intensity is evident in his unwavering dedication to continuous improvement and his insistence on staying sharp and alert at all times.

Team Effort and Humility

While O’Brien may be the face of the operation, he acknowledges the monumental team effort behind his success. He attributes achievements to the collective effort of owners, jockeys, and the entire team at Ballydoyle. Despite personal accolades, O’Brien remains humble, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and focusing on the next challenge.

Looking Ahead

As the new season unfolds, O’Brien remains optimistic about the prospects of promising talents like City Of Troy. He takes pride in representing Ireland on the world stage and acknowledges the contributions of the entire Irish racing community. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a deep appreciation for the sport, O’Brien’s legacy at Ballydoyle continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts.

The post Aidan O’Brien: The Pursuit of Excellence at Ballydoyle appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Leading Jockey Award

1^ST  2^ND  3^RD

Paul Townend   6  –  –

Harry Skelton   4  1  –

Rachael Blackmore  2  4  1

Mark Walsh   2  3  1

Mr Derek O’Connor  2  1  –

Jack Kennedy   1  4  4

Keith Donoghue  1  2  1

Harry Cobden   1  2  –

Mr Patrick Mullins  1  1  1

Danny Gilligan   1  –  1

JJ Slevin   1  –  1

David Bass   1  –  –

Mr John Dawson  1  –  –

Sam Ewing   1  –  –

Ben Jones   1  –  –

Lorcan Williams  1  –  –

Charlie Deutsch  –  1  2

Danny Mullins   –  1  2

Mr William Biddick  –  1  –

TP Harney   –  1  –

Beau Morgan   –  1  –

Mike O’Connor  –  1  –

Sean O’Keeffe   –  1  –

Jonjo O’Neill Jr  –   1  –

Kielan Woods   –  1  –

Michael O’Sullivan  –  –  2

Miss Gina Andrews  –  –  1

James Bowen   –  –  1

Derek Fox   –  –  1

Kiaran Gethings  –  –  1

Mr John Gleeson  –  –  1

Shaun Houlihan  –  –  1

Mr Toby McCain-Mitchell –  –  1

Stephen Mulqueen  –  –  1

Darragh O’Keeffe  –  –  1

Gavin Sheehan  –  –  1

Sam Twiston-Davies  –  –  1

Leading Trainer Award

1^ST  2^ND  3^RD

Willie Mullins IRE  9  6  6

Dan Skelton   4  1  –

Gordon Elliott IRE  3  5  5

Henry de Bromhead IRE 2  5  3

Gavin Cromwell IRE  2  1  1

Ben Pauling   1  2  –

Paul Nicholls   1  1  –

Emmet Mullins IRE  1  1  –

Joseph O’Brien IRE  1  –  1

Kim Bailey   1  –  –

Fiona Needham  1  –  –

Jeremy Scott   1  –  –

Jonjo O’Neill   –  1  –

Ross O’Sullivan IRE  –  1  –

Mel Rowley   –  1  –

Jamie Snowden  –  1  –

Evan Williams   –  1  –

Lucinda Russell  –  –  2

Venetia Williams  –  –  2

Sara Bradstock  –  –  1

Stuart Edmunds  –  –  1

Nicky Henderson  –  –  1

Sheila Lewis   –  –  1

Gary Moore   –  –  1

Hannah Roach   –  –  1

Nigel Twiston-Davies  –  –  1

Leading Owner Award

1^ST  2^ND  3^RD

JP McManus    5  6  2

Robcour    2  2  –

Ferguson, Mason, Hales  2  1  –

Susannah Ricci   2  –  –

Gigginstown House Stud  1  1  4

Bective Stud    1  1  1

Sean & Bernadette Mulryan  1  1  –

Harry Redknapp   1  1  –

Marie Donnelly   1  –  1

Ronnie Bartlett & David Manasseh  1  –  –

Sir Francis Brooke & RA Pilkington  1  –  –

Colm Donlon    1  –  –

IF Gosden    1  –  –

H O S Syndicate   1  –  –

Robert Kirkland   1  –  –

Delan Landy    1  –  –

Simon Munir & Isaac Souede  1  –  –

O’Reilly Maclennan Tynan Carthy Shanahan 1 –  –

Robin Tate    1  –  –

Audrey Turley    1  –  –

Kenny Alexander   –  2  –

Cheveley Park Stud   –  2  –

Lady Dulverton   –  1  –

Flooring Portner Syndicate  –  1  –

Gordon & Su Hall   –  1  –

KTDA Racing    –  1  –

Barry Maloney    –  1  –

Mrs G Morgan    –  1  –

William & Angela Rucker  –  1  –

Sheep As A Lamb Syndicate  –  1  –

TJ Ward    –  1  –

Edward Ware    –  1  –

Tony Bloom    –  –  1

Cracker & Smodge P’Ship  –  –  1

P Davies    –  –  1

French Connection Partnership  –  –  1

G&s Capper M&c Kennerley M Loran –  –  1

Niall Earls    –  –  1

Far Bihoue Partnership  –  –  1

Keith Graves    –  –  1

MK Mariga    –  –  1

Hollywood Syndicate   –  –  1

Graham And Alison Jelley  –  –  1

My Racing Manager Friends  –  –  1

Sean O’Driscoll   –  –  1

Pump & Plant Services  –  –  1

The Ramblers    –  –  1

Mrs M Roden & Mrs R Nolan  –  –  1

Thunder Holdings Ltd & The Young Ones –  –  1

Whacker’s Clan Syndicate  –  –  1

Graham Wilson   –  –  1

Prestbury Cup

Ireland 18

Great Britain 9

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