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Video Replay – 2023 Coventry Stakes – River Tiber wins for O’Brien

River Tiber (11/8F) demonstrated his unbeatable prowess by triumphing in the G2 Coventry Stakes, a prestigious race for two-year-olds. The Wootton Bassett colt exhibited determination in the closing stages, fending off Army Ethos by a neck, with Bucanero Fuerte finishing three-quarters of a length behind in third place.

Trainer Aidan O’Brien secured his record-breaking tenth victory in the Coventry Stakes, with his last win achieved by Arizona in 2019. Jockey Ryan Moore played a pivotal role, marking his fourth success in this celebrated race.

O’Brien revealed the strategic decision to bring River Tiber back to a shorter distance of five furlongs in a previous race, which initially surprised them as the colt struggled to maintain sharpness. However, it became evident that River Tiber possessed the stamina and capability to comfortably handle longer distances. Throughout training, the horse consistently displayed impressive form, excelling in workouts and demonstrating strength with each session. O’Brien admitted his concern about the colt’s maturity and weight gain, but River Tiber effortlessly managed the race, cruising through the initial stages with ease.

Expressing his elation, O’Brien acknowledged the unpredictability of achieving a victory at such a prestigious event like Royal Ascot. He emphasized the relief and delight experienced by the entire team, who invest tremendous effort into this week-long racing extravaganza.

Moore described the challenging start of the race, with horses becoming agitated, and noted that River Tiber did not settle as well as usual in the stalls. Despite these obstacles, the jockey ensured a smooth journey for the colt, although he admitted to potentially allowing River Tiber to relax too much during the race. However, when confronted with a challenge from Frankie Dettori on Givemethebeatboys, River Tiber responded effectively. Another rival, Army Ethos, made a strong move in the middle of the track, prompting Moore to believe that his mount had even more to offer. Moore anticipated that River Tiber’s impressive speed could make him a contender for the Dewhurst Stakes.

Moore also praised River Tiber’s physicality, highlighting how the colt stood out among the 22 runners at the starting line, showcasing his exceptional stature.

 

Archie Watson, last year’s winning trainer, expressed satisfaction with Army Ethos’s performance, narrowly missing out on securing consecutive Coventry Stakes victories. Watson commended the horse’s outstanding class since his acquisition at the Somerville Yearling Sale by bloodstock agent Oliver St Lawrence. The initial plan involved participating in Ayr before targeting Royal Ascot.

Hollie Doyle, Army Ethos’s jockey, believed that being on the opposite side of the track might have been more favorable, allowing for a greater challenge against the eventual winner. Nevertheless, she emphasized the horse’s potential and his flawless straight-running performance, affirming that Army Ethos is a promising and developing talent.

In summary, River Tiber’s determined win in the Coventry Stakes solidifies his unbeaten record, while Army Ethos showcased remarkable potential and resilience in his pursuit of victory.

Video Replay – Paddington wins 2023 St James Palace stakes at Royal Ascot

Paddington (11/5), the winner of the Irish 2,000 Guineas, solidified his position as the top three-year-old miler by convincingly defeating Chaldean, the winner of the 2,000 Guineas, in the G1 St James’s Palace Stakes. Under the skillful guidance of jockey Ryan Moore, Paddington accelerated strongly in the home stretch, pulling away to secure a resounding victory by a margin of three and three-quarter lengths.

This triumph marks Paddington’s fifth consecutive win, propelling trainer Aidan O’Brien ahead of Sir Michael Stoute as the most successful Royal Ascot trainer, with an impressive tally of 83 victories, including nine in this esteemed mile race. While Chaldean, ridden by Frankie Dettori, led the pack at the start, he was unable to match Paddington’s burst of speed. Charyn put up a strong performance from the back of the field, narrowly beating out Isaac Shelby for third place.

O’Brien expressed his excitement about Paddington, noting that the horse has the potential to excel beyond a mile. He praised Ryan Moore for his excellent ride, highlighting the colt’s impressive ability to accelerate. The decision to participate in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood will be determined after assessing Paddington’s condition in the coming days, considering the horse’s versatility and speed, which make him a promising contender in various races.

Reflecting on Paddington’s unconventional journey to the top level, O’Brien explained their strategy of starting horses in races that suit their abilities, gradually progressing from lower-level events. While Paddington’s maiden win was solid but not extraordinary, he obtained a favorable handicap mark. Moore remarked on Paddington’s class and improvement, expressing his satisfaction with the colt’s performance.

Trainer Andrew Balding acknowledged that Chaldean was defeated by a formidable opponent and acknowledged Frankie Dettori’s belief that they may have pushed too hard early on. Despite this, Balding recognized the quality of both horses. Frankie Dettori himself praised Chaldean as a remarkable horse, finishing a strong second and delivering a solid performance.

Roger Varian, trainer of Charyn, expressed delight at the horse’s progress and improvement. He considered Charyn’s performance at the Curragh as promising, as he finished the same distance behind Paddington as in that previous race. Varian highlighted Charyn’s versatility, toughness, and genuineness, aiming to find suitable opportunities for him to win races against strong competition.

David Egan, jockey of Charyn, expressed confidence in the horse’s abilities, believing he would outperform his odds. Egan cited Charyn’s strong showing in the Irish Guineas and his second-place finish at Newbury as evidence of his talent and ability to compete at a high level.

Overall, Paddington’s dominant victory in the St James’s Palace Stakes solidified his position as an exceptional three-year-old miler, while Chaldean and Charyn showcased their abilities as formidable competitors in the race.

Video – Alan Clarke spends day with Ado McGuinness ahead of Galway Races

Video – Alan Clarke spends day with Ado McGuinness ahead of Galway Races

The highly anticipated Galway Races are just around the corner, promising an exhilarating week of top-class horse racing action. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Galway City, this renowned event attracts racing enthusiasts from far and wide. With a captivating blend of thrilling races, competitive fields, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Galway Races never fail to deliver excitement.

Expect to witness fierce competition as top trainers, jockeys, and horses vie for glory across a variety of races, including flat races, hurdles, and the iconic Galway Plate and Galway Hurdle. The Galway Festival provides an ideal platform for both seasoned veterans and emerging talents to showcase their skills on the track, creating a thrilling spectacle for spectators and bettors alike.

Beyond the racing action, the Galway Races offer a lively social scene, with fashion, entertainment, and culinary delights adding to the festivities. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, the Galway Races are an experience to be cherished.

 

Draw, Groups and Fixtures for 2023/24 Champions Cup Rugby

The Draw and fixtures for the 2023/24 Champions Cup Rugby has been announced.

The 2023/24 Heineken Champions Cup will be competed for by 24 elite clubs with eight representatives from the United Rugby Championship (URC)

Tier 1 was made up of Stade Rochelais (Heineken Champions Cup winners), Stade Toulousain (TOP 14 winners), Saracens (Premiership winners) and Munster (URC winners). The remaining 20 clubs were either drawn or allocated into the four pools in keeping with the draw’s key principles.

The Tier 1 and the Tier 4 clubs which have been drawn in the same pool, but which are not in the same league, will play one another home and away during the pool stage, as will the Tier 2 and Tier 3 clubs which have been drawn in the same pool, but which are not in the same league.

The 2023/24 EPCR season preparations took a significant stride forward as the EPCR Pool Draws were successfully conducted at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This state-of-the-art venue hosted the draws, setting the stage for an exciting Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup season that awaits fans worldwide.

The tournament format, featuring multiple pools, guarantees thrilling encounters between some of the most prominent professional clubs in the world. These matchups will undoubtedly captivate audiences when the tournaments kick off in December.

The reigning champions, Stade Rochelais, found themselves in a highly competitive Pool 4, where they will once again lock horns with Leinster Rugby, renewing the intense rivalry that was witnessed in last May’s gripping final. Stade Rochelais, aiming for a third consecutive title, will also face off against the formidable DHL Stormers, Sale Sharks, and Leicester Tigers, with the venue for each match yet to be determined. Pool 4 also welcomed Stade Francais Paris as the second TOP 14 representative.

Pool 1 will witness a clash between Gallagher Premiership victors, Saracens, and strong contenders Vodacom Bulls, Union Bordeaux-Begles, Lyon, and Connacht Rugby. It’s worth noting that Bristol Bears, also drawn into Pool 1, will not face Saracens due to the draw’s principles.

Stade Toulousain, recent winners of the TOP 14, have found themselves in Pool 2, where they will compete against Harlequins, Bath Rugby, Ulster Rugby, and Cardiff Rugby. Notably, Racing 92, also in Pool 2, will not face Stade Toulousain, adding to the anticipation.

Pool 3 features Munster Rugby, triumphant in the United Rugby Championship (URC), pitted against illustrious opponents such as three-time champions RC Toulon, 2020 winners Exeter Chiefs, Northampton Saints, and debutants Aviron Bayonnais. Furthermore, Glasgow Warriors, the second URC representative in Pool 3, will engage in battles against the same formidable opponents as Munster.

The Champions Cup pools consist of two clubs from each of the TOP 14, Gallagher Premiership, and United Rugby Championship (URC) leagues. Notably, Irish and South African teams from the URC were intentionally kept apart during the draw, ensuring diverse matchups.

Tier 1 comprised the previous season’s winners: Stade Rochelais, Stade Toulousain, Saracens, and Munster. The remaining 20 clubs were assigned to the pools, adhering to the key principles of the draw, which set the stage for a season filled with high-quality rugby and fierce competition.

The biggest wins of the 2023 flat racing season so far

Shinzo wins the Group 1 Longines Golden Slipper for Coolmore and Ryan Moore. Credit: Australian Turf Club/Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival.

We’re now right in the midst of the 2023 flat racing season, and there have already been some stellar stories so far.

With so many big races and fixtures taking place across the spring, summer, and autumn months, it can be hard to keep track of who the big winners are, but we’ve put together this quick round-up of the winners of some of the biggest races in flat racing this year.

So, as you continue to examine the race odds for the high-profile races still to come in 2023, let’s take a look at how things have unfolded so far.

Dubai World Cup – Ushba Tesoro

The Dubai World Cup is the richest horse race on the planet, boasting a total prize purse of some $12 million. It’s no surprise, then, that it captures the attention of racing fans all over the planet.

The 2023 winner was Japanese thoroughbred Ushba Tesoro, finishing two and three-quarter lengths clear of second-place Algiers. It was a joyous moment for jockey Yuga Kawada and trainer Nobou Takagi.

Kentucky Derby – Mage

One of the most iconic flat races in the world, the Kentucky Derby is always a major occasion on the horse racing calendar.

Mage was the horse who managed to streak clear of the chasing pack to win the 2023 Kentucky Derby. A fine performance by Javier Castellano in the saddle saw Mage win by a length and a half over second-place Two Phil’s

2,000 Guineas – Chaldean

Turning to the UK, the British Classic races are always standout occasions in the flat racing world, and the Guineas Festival got things underway in May, with the 2,000 Guineas contested by three-year-old colts and fillies.

It was won by Chaldean this year, ridden by legendary jockey Frankie Dettori. The 52-year-old is in his final season as a professional rider, and he couldn’t have asked for a better moment to mark it.

1,000 Guineas – Mawj

The 1,000 Guineas is a race contested by three-year-old fillies only, and takes pride of place as another of the British Classics.

Mawj was the 2023 winner, with Oisin Murphy in the saddle for trainer Saeed bin Suroor and the Godolphin stables. It was a poignant moment for Murphy, who only recently returned from a lengthy ban from the sport.

The Oaks – Soul Sister

The Derby Festival at Epsom also brings two British Classic races, the first of which is The Oaks, run over a distance of just over one mile and four furlongs.

There was further glory for Dettori in the 2023 race, who secured yet another Classic victory and brought yet more success for father-son training duo John and Thady Gosden.

The Derby – Auguste Rodin

The second day of the Derby Festival brings us The Derby itself, one of the standout occasions of all the British Classics.

It was trainer Aidan O’Brien’s moment of glory this year, as Auguste Rodin and jockey earned him his 41st British Classic victory, making him the outright most successful trainer in the history of the Classic series.

Bingo Hall Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts for a Pleasant Bingo Experience

Bingo is not just a fun game; it’s a social activity that brings people together for a delightful time. Whether you’re a seasoned bingo player or new to the game, it’s important to be mindful of proper etiquette when visiting a bingo hall. By following some simple dos and don’ts, you can ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and those around you. In this article, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of bingo hall etiquette, providing you with essential guidelines to make your bingo experience enjoyable for everyone involved.

 

Do: Arrive on Time

 

One of the key aspects of bingo hall etiquette is punctuality. It’s important to arrive on time, or even a little early, so you can purchase your tickets, find a seat, and get settled before the game begins. Arriving late can disrupt the flow of the game and cause inconvenience to both the players and the bingo hall staff.

 

Don’t: Save Seats

 

While it’s common to want to save seats for friends or family members, it’s best to avoid doing so in a bingo hall. Saving seats can create confusion and frustration among other players who are looking for available seating. It’s best to arrive together as a group and find seats together or allow others to take any empty seats until your group arrives.

 

Do: Respect Quiet Times

 

During the bingo game, it’s important to maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere. Avoid loud conversations, excessive noise, or using electronic devices that may disrupt the concentration of other players. Remember, many players come to the bingo hall to enjoy a peaceful and focused gaming experience.

 

Don’t: Interfere with Other Players’ Cards

 

Each player has their own bingo cards, and it’s important to respect their space. Avoid touching or interfering with other players’ cards, as it can lead to confusion and disrupt the game. Keep your hands to yourself and focus on your own cards.

 

Do: Practice Good Sportsmanship

 

Bingo is a game of chance, and winning is not guaranteed. It’s important to embrace the spirit of good sportsmanship, regardless of the outcome. Congratulate winners, even if you didn’t win, and maintain a positive attitude throughout the game. Remember, bingo is meant to be a fun and friendly activity for everyone involved.

 

Don’t: Use Offensive Language or Behave Rudely

 

Respect and kindness should always be a priority in the bingo hall. Avoid using offensive language, making rude remarks, or engaging in any behavior that may be disrespectful or hurtful to others. Treat fellow players, staff, and volunteers with courtesy and consideration.

 

Do: Follow the Caller’s Instructions

 

The bingo caller is responsible for announcing the numbers and managing the game. It’s important to listen attentively to the caller and follow their instructions. This includes being aware of the specific rules of the game, such as the winning patterns and the procedures for claiming prizes. By following the caller’s instructions, you contribute to a smooth and organized gaming experience for everyone.

 

Don’t: Cheat or Engage in Unfair Practices

 

Maintaining the integrity of the game is essential in bingo. Cheating or engaging in unfair practices, such as marking numbers incorrectly or falsely claiming a win, not only undermines the game but also ruins the experience for others. Play bingo honestly and enjoy the thrill of the game without resorting to unfair tactics.

 

Do: Clean Up After Yourself

 

When playing in a bingo hall, it’s important to keep your area clean and tidy. Dispose of any trash or used bingo cards properly and leave the seating area clean for the next group of players. This helps maintain a pleasant environment for everyone and shows respect for the bingo hall and its staff.

 

Don’t: Be a Sore Loser

 

In bingo, there will be times when you don’t win. It’s important to accept losses gracefully and avoid being a sore loser. Remember that bingo is a game of chance, and everyone has an equal opportunity to win. Instead of dwelling on losses, focus on enjoying the experience and the thrill of the game itself.

 

By following these dos and don’ts of bingo hall etiquette, you can contribute to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for yourself and your fellow players. Bingo is not just about winning; it’s about the sense of community, social interaction, and having fun. So, embrace these guidelines, respect others, and let the excitement of the game unfold in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Online Games That Can Keep Sports Fever Alive

There is an ebb and flow to an interest in sports. This is partly due to the seasonal nature of many sports, but this might also be because it’s difficult to maintain a consistently high level of interest in a hobby over long periods of time – breaks can be necessary. However, who is to say that these breaks can’t help to keep the fires of your sports fever burning? With the right substitute, you’ll be more ready than ever to jump back into your sport of choice when the season kicks off again – and gaming of another variety might be the perfect place to begin your search.

Online Slots


You might have heard a lot more about online slots and other casino games in recent times as the medium has become more popular, moving closer in line with other types of online games. However, it might be that you’re looking for specifics – how can these games align with your interest in sport? Well, outlets like jackpotcitycasino.com can provide you with multiple slot games that are specifically sports-themed. Cricket Star and Bowled Over can scratch that cricket itch, while you also have the choice of others, like Basketball Star, Football Star and Lucky Shot – for basketball, soccer and golf, respectively. With this variety comes different sports and different variations in the games themselves, so you’re bound to find something that lines up with your specific interest. In this way, the transition can work by introducing you to something new and novel (the game of slots itself) while doing so through something that you already love (sports). Knowing that you can pay in a variety of ways(including crypto!) and through an encrypted platform can do a lot to make this a comfortable experience.

Alternatively, if that doesn’t interest you as much initially, you might find that sports betting through the same platform might work as a better introduction to the world of casino games.

FIFA and Its Successors


This might sound like a specific example, as your own sports interest might not specifically be intertwined with soccer. However, there is an enormous online community around games like FIFA (though, due to an issue with the rights, the series might be titled something different moving forward). Even if you’re new to games, you might find that it doesn’t take you very long to get to grips with how this digital version of your favourite sport works. There are also campaign modes and other single-player ventures included that can give you multiple ways of finding your footing before you launch yourself into the more competitive online scene.

Once you’re there, though, you might feel as though you’re immersed in the sporting world yourself.

Rocket League


It might be that you’re looking to embrace the more fantastical side of what video games can offer, and if that’s the case, Rocket League might be able to provide the perfect middle ground. The setup is very familiar – two teams playing against each other to score more goals. However, the twist is that each player controls a car, and the scale of the game has been ramped up significantly. There are other subtle differences in the rules between this and soccer, but there is plenty of room for you to explore this online due to the massive popularity that Rocket League has acquired all over the world due to its presence as an esport.

GAA fixtures – Gaelic Football and Hurling June 2023

Sean O'Shea stands over Galway's Gary O'Donnell during a league meeting between the sides in February 2019 in Tuam. Photo credit: Shane Tighe

We have an up to date list of GAA fixtures for June 2023

Saturday June 24

All-Ireland Hurling Quarter-Finals
Clare v Dublin, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 4pm, RTE Click to buy tickets
Tipperary v Galway, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 6.15pm, RTE Click to buy tickets 

All-Ireland football Prelim Quarter-Finals

Cork v Roscommon, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, 2pm, GAAGO – Click to buy tickets

Kildare v Monaghan, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 4.45pm, GAAGO Click to buy tickets

Donegal v Tyrone, MacCumhaill Park, 7pm, GAAGO Click to buy tickets

Electric Ireland minor football Semi-Final
Kerry v Monaghan, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 2.30pm, TG4

Sunday June 25

All-Ireland SFC Preliminary Quarter-Final
Galway v Mayo, Pearse Stadium, 3pm, RTE 1 Click to buy tickets

Tailteann Cup Semi-Finals
Antrim v Meath, Croke Park, 2pm, RTE 2 – Click here to buy tickets

Down v Laois, Croke Park, 4pm, RTE 2
Click here to buy tickets

Electric Ireland MFC Semi-Final
Dublin v Derry, BOX-IT Athletic Grounds, 5.30pm, TG4

 

Saturday 1 July

All-Ireland SFC quarter-finals

Dublin v preliminary quarter-final winner, TBC, TBC
Derry v preliminary quarter-final winner, TBC, TBC
Kerry v preliminary quarter-final winner, TBC, TBC
Aramagh v preliminary quarter-final winner, TBC, TBC

Saturday 8 July

All-Ireland SHC semi-final
Limerick v quarter-final winner, Croke Park, TBC

Sunday 9 July

All-Ireland SHC semi-final
Kilkenny v quarter-final winner, Croke Park, TBC

Friday 14 July

All-Ireland JFC semi-finals
Kilkenny v British winner or runner-up, Abbottstown, TBC
New York v British winner or runner-up, Abbottstown, TBC

Saturday 15 July

All-Ireland SFC semi-final
Quarter-final winner v quarter-final winner, Croke Park, TBC

Tailteann Cup final
Semi-final winner v semi-final winner, Croke Park, TBC

Sunday 16 July

All-Ireland SFC semi-final
Quarter-final winner v quarter-final winner, Croke Park, TBC

All-Ireland JFC final

Dublin v Sligo – Preview, Live Scores & Starting Teams

Dublin vs. Sligo: Championship Clash 2023 | A Comprehensive Preview

Click for Live scores from Dublin v Sligo

Dublin and Sligo are set to ignite the championship stage in an epic showdown on Sunday at 1:45 pm. As anticipation builds, let’s dive into this comprehensive preview of the Dublin vs. Sligo clash, featuring team statistics, standout performers, head-to-head history, and their respective championship journeys.

Dublin’s Dominance:

Dublin, the reigning champions, have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the Championship 2023. With an impressive three points and a remarkable scoring difference of 9+, Dublin has showcased their exceptional skills and unwavering determination. They stormed through the Leinster quarter-final, semi-final, and final, overpowering Laois, Kildare, and Louth, respectively.

Top Scorers Leading the Charge:

Donegal v Monaghan – Preview, Live Scores & Starting Teams

Exciting Showdown Expected as Donegal Takes on Monaghan in Championship Clash

Click for live scores on Monaghan v Donegal 

In a highly anticipated Championship encounter, Donegal and Monaghan will face off on Saturday at 6pm. With both teams having already secured their spots in the knock-out stages, this clash promises to be an exhilarating battle for supremacy. Let’s delve into the key details and recent performances of both teams.

Match Details:
Date: Saturday, O’Neills Healy Park, 6pm – GAAGO

Teams: Donegal vs Monaghan

Donegal team to play Monaghan
Donegal team to play Monaghan
Monaghan team to play Donegal in 2023 All Ireland football group stages
Monaghan team to play Donegal in 2023 All Ireland football group stages

Current Form:

Monaghan enters the match with a solid performance so far, accumulating three points and boasting an impressive scoring difference of 5+. Donegal, on the other hand, has secured two points and maintains a scoring difference of 0. This sets the stage for a captivating encounter between these two determined sides.

Championship 2023:

Donegal’s journey in the Championship has seen mixed results. They kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought victory over Down, scoring 2-13 to their opponent’s 1-11 in the Ulster quarter-final. In the All-Ireland Group 4, Donegal defeated Clare with a scoreline of 0-14 to 0-9 but faced a setback against Derry, succumbing to a 3-14 to 1-15 defeat. Notable performers for Donegal include Oisin Gallen, Ciaran Thompson, Jason McGee, Conor O’Donnell, and Rory O’Donnell.

Monaghan’s Championship journey has been filled with competitive encounters. They started with a thrilling 2-17 to 1-18 victory over Tyrone in the Ulster quarter-final, showcasing their strength. However, they stumbled against Derry in the Ulster semi-final, losing 1-21 to 2-10. In the All-Ireland Group 4, Monaghan battled to a 0-14 draw against Derry before triumphing over Clare with a scoreline of 1-23 to 1-18. Key contributors for Monaghan include Conor McManus, Jack McCarron, Conor McCarthy, Michael Bannigan, and Karl O’Connell.

Previous Championship Meetings:

The history between Donegal and Monaghan in the Championship is filled with closely contested matches. In their most recent five encounters, the teams have exchanged victories. Donegal emerged victorious in the 2016 Ulster semi-final replay with a scoreline of 0-17 to 2-10. The initial game ended in a draw, with a final score of 1-11 to 0-14. Monaghan claimed victory in the 2015 Ulster final, winning 0-11 to 0-10, while Donegal emerged as champions in the 2014 final with a scoreline of 0-15 to 1-9. In the 2013 Ulster final, Monaghan prevailed with a scoreline of 0-13 to 0-7. Notably, Monaghan also defeated Donegal 1-20 to 0-15 in this year’s Allianz League, showcasing their recent dominance.

Conclusion:

With both teams showcasing strong performances and possessing talented individuals, the Donegal versus Monaghan clash promises to be a thrilling Championship encounter. Fans can expect intense action and a fiercely contested battle as these teams vie for victory. Stay tuned for an enthralling match on Saturday at 6pm.