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Irish Swimmers Reach Finals at U23 Euros and Sette Colli – McCartney, Bailey, McSharry, Fannon Shine

McCartney and Bailey Qualify for Finals in Slovakia; McSharry and Fannon Progress in Italy

It was a strong start for Irish swimmers on the opening day of competition at the European Aquatics U23 Championships in Slovakia and the Sette Colli International in Rome, with Ellie McCartney, Evan Bailey, Mona McSharry, and Tom Fannon all booking their places in tonight’s finals.

🇸🇰 European U23 Championships – Slovakia

Ellie McCartney was in sensational form in the 200m Individual Medley, clocking 2:15.02 to win her heat and qualify fastest overall. She’ll take lane 4 in the final at 6.27pm (IRL), ahead of France’s Bertille Cousson (2:15.25) and Italy’s Giada Alzetta (2:15.74).

Evan Bailey impressed in the 200m Freestyle, finishing second behind Olympic champion David Popovici (1:46.84) in his heat with a time of 1:47.48. The Wexford native advances fourth overall to the final at 5.24pm (IRL).

Eoin Corby was heartbreakingly denied a place in the 50m Breaststroke Final after a swim-off with Ukraine’s Maksym Ovchinnikov. Both clocked 28.00 in the heats, but the Ukrainian’s 27.99 edged Corby (28.14) in the decider, just after Corby had raced for Ireland in the Mixed Medley Relay.

Also competing in Slovakia this morning:

  • Brandon Biss – 200m Backstroke: 2:03.36
  • Cormac Rynn – 200m Freestyle: 1:47.77 (his third fastest time ever)
  • Maria Godden – 50m Backstroke: 29.39 (Top 12)
  • Jack Cassin – 100m Butterfly: 53.05 (Top 12)
  • Mixed Medley Relay (Cullen, Cassin, Corby, Godden): 11th place in 3:55.47

🇮🇹 Sette Colli International – Rome

Olympic bronze medallist Mona McSharry eased into the 100m Breaststroke Final after winning her heat in 1:07.05. She qualifies second overall behind GB’s Angharad Evans (1:06.83), with the final at 6.04pm (IRL).

Tom Fannon clocked 22.21 in his heat of the 50m Freestyle, behind Britain’s Ben Proud (21.90). He advances to the final ranked fourth overall with a start time of 6.44pm (IRL).

Ellen Walshe opened the Irish campaign in Rome, finishing the 200m Freestyle in 2:01.52. She will return on Friday for her main event, the 400m Individual Medley.

A further press release will follow this evening’s finals.

Kalpana Returns to Curragh for Pretty Polly Stakes – Saturday Feature Preview

Kalpana Returns to the Curragh for Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes

British raiders look to extend their dominance in the Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes this Saturday, as Kalpana lines up for Andrew Balding in a field of seven high-class fillies. The British-trained runner will be ridden by Colin Keane following a fine third in the Tattersalls Gold Cup last month at the same venue.

Trainer Andrew Balding was upbeat, saying: “She is a very high-class filly. While we think she might be even better over further, a mile and a quarter should suit her well – especially if the ground stays good.”

International Challenge

The French-trained Survie, a Group 2 winner, joins Kalpana as part of the international challenge. She will be ridden by Stéphane Pasquier for Nicolas Clément and Flo Hermans.

Irish Contenders

  • Whirl – Aidan O’Brien’s narrow Oaks runner-up represents strong claims.
  • Wemighttakedlongway – Joseph O’Brien’s filly bids to follow in the footsteps of Iridessa (2019) and Thundering Nights (2021).
  • Magical Hope – Trained by 2022 winner Paddy Twomey.
  • Jancis – Willie McCreery’s charge will be partnered by Ben Coen.
  • Higher Leaves – Represents Henry de Bromhead and Shane Foley.

More Group Action on the Card

Group 2 Airlie Stud Stakes: Six juveniles line up, including Ger Lyons’ Lady Iman (chasing a four-timer) and Aidan O’Brien’s Beautify, with Ryan Moore booked.

Group 3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai International Stakes: Elizabeth Jane runs for Dermot Weld with Chris Hayes aboard.

Group 3 Anglesey Stakes: Flushing Meadows heads a quality field that includes Stop The Nation and debut winner Suzie Songs.

Ladies Derby & Handicaps

  • Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes Ladies Derby: Jody Townend (Tatateo) and Hannah Smullen (Desert Friend) feature.
  • Fitzpatrick’s Mercedes-Benz Handicap: Recent winner Cold Hearted aims to follow up for Jessica Harrington.

Full Race Schedule – Saturday

  • 1.15pm – Barronstown Stud Irish EBF Maiden
  • 5.15pm – Keadeen Hotel Irish EBF Maiden

Pretty Polly Stakes – Odds (Paddy Power)

  • 6/4 – Whirl
  • 9/4 – Kalpana
  • 6 – Wemighttakedlongway
  • 7 – Higher Leaves
  • 12 – Jancis
  • 14 – Survie
  • 20 – Magical Hope

Going Update

Straight course: Good to firm in places
Round course: Good
Stalls: Centre for all sprint races

Admission & Bundles

  • Saturday General Admission: €30 online / €35 on the day
  • Sunday Premium Admission: €150 (Winning Line Lounge access)
  • Derby Bundles: From €33 – includes admission, €5 bet, food voucher, racecard, afterparty access

Transport & Parking

🚌 Free shuttle buses from Newbridge & Kildare
🚗 Free parking at the Curragh Racecourse

Where to Watch

  • Racing TV – Full coverage
  • TG4 & RTÉ – Selected races live on Saturday and Sunday

Entertainment

  • 🎶 Friday – The Classic Beatles (afterparty)
  • 🎸 Sunday – The Whistlin’ Donkey’s (afterparty)

For tickets, discounts and more: curragh.ie/tickets

🔥 Best Bets for the 2025–26 NFL Season


🔥 Best Bets for the 2025–26 NFL Season

Training camps are just weeks away, and with odds posted across the board, now’s the time to lock in the value. Here are the smartest outright bets ahead of the 2025/26 NFL season.

🏆 AFC East Winner – Best Value: New England Patriots (9/2)

The Buffalo Bills are heavy favourites at 1/3, but the value lies with the New England Patriots at 9/2. Mike Vrabel brings toughness, leadership, and Super Bowl pedigree. The defence looks rejuvenated and Stefon Diggs adds star power on offence. With Drake Maye under centre and upgrades on the O-line, New England could surprise everyone.

✅ Verdict: Excellent value with a revitalised franchise on the rise.

💪 AFC North Winner – Best Bet: Baltimore Ravens (8/13)

Not the most exciting price, but this is the most reliable team in a volatile division. The Ravens retained their core and avoided major injuries last season. Lamar Jackson leads an elite offence, and their defence is one of the toughest in the league.

💡 Smart Pick: Use Baltimore as a solid parlay anchor.

🚫 Team to Avoid: Pittsburgh Steelers (9/2)

Yes, they signed Aaron Rodgers — but this isn’t 2015. At 41 and coming off a disastrous stint in New York, the Steelers’ hopes rest on a quarterback with more questions than answers. The O-line is brittle, the playmakers are thin, and Arthur Smith’s system doesn’t scream success for Rodgers. This is not worth the price.

⚠️ Recommendation: Avoid. Massive downside risk with limited upside.

🏈 AFC Championship Winner – Best Bet: Kansas City Chiefs (7/2)

Don’t overthink it. Patrick Mahomes. Andy Reid. A Super Bowl-ready roster. While others like Buffalo and Baltimore are priced shorter, the Chiefs are still the team to beat. The odds are generous considering the consistency and play-off pedigree.

📈 Value Rating: 9/10

🦅 NFC Championship Winner – Best Bet: Philadelphia Eagles (7/2)

The Eagles made all the right moves. They retained key players, added Saquon Barkley, and survived attempts to outlaw the tush push. With Hurts healthy and a dominant O-line, they’re the team to beat in a weaker NFC.

🏆 Favourite for a reason: Elite on both sides of the ball.

📉 NFC Fader: San Francisco 49ers (8/1)

This price does not reflect their offseason losses: Deebo Samuel, Hufanga, Hargrave, Greenlaw, and more. The Niners are in rebuild mode and could start slowly despite Purdy’s new contract and a decent draft. Wait for a better live price — or fade entirely.

🚫 Not worth the gamble at single digits.

🟨 Division Longshots Worth a Punt

  • Green Bay Packers (9/1) – NFC Championship Winner: Young QB with momentum. If they get hot, they could go deep. Decent each-way shout.
  • Cleveland Browns (25/1) – AFC North Winner: Strong D, solid run game, and a wild card mentality. Price is far too big for their upside.

📊 Summary Table

Category Team Odds Verdict
Best Value Division Winner New England Patriots 9/2 Vrabel-led bounce back potential
Safe Parlay Anchor Baltimore Ravens 8/13 Rock-solid across the board
AFC Champion Kansas City Chiefs 7/2 Still the team to beat
NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles 7/2 Depth, Barkley and the tush push
Overhyped Pick Pittsburgh Steelers 9/2 Too much faith in Rodgers
Longshot Flyer Cleveland Browns 25/1 Dark horse with a nasty defence

Odds correct as of June 26th, 2025. Always gamble responsibly.

Moses Dyer Set for Shock Exit from Galway United?

🇳🇿 Moses Dyer Linked with Shock Move to Cambodia 🇰🇭

Moses Dyer could be on his way out of Eamonn Deacy Park, as reports link the Galway United striker with a surprise transfer to Cambodian champions Phnom Penh Crown.

The 28-year-old New Zealand international currently tops the League of Ireland scoring charts with 10 goals in 20 appearances, and has reportedly attracted interest from both domestic and international clubs.

Derry City are said to have triggered a €60,000 release clause in Dyer’s contract, but the player has reportedly turned down a move north — with a switch to the Cambodian Premier League now gaining momentum.

Neither Galway United nor Phnom Penh Crown have issued a statement, but Derry boss Tiernan Lynch has denied making an official approach — adding that he’d “take him if available”.

Dyer joined United in January 2025 from Vancouver FC in Canada and has become a fan favourite in Galway. With 11 senior caps for New Zealand and experience as a former U-20 captain, he would be a major loss for the Maroon Army.

#MaroonArmy #GalwayUnited #MosesDyer

British & Irish Lions v Western Force: Kick-off Time, Irish Team News, and Match Preview – Saturday 28 June

British & Irish Lions v Western Force – Saturday 28 June, 10:45am Irish Time

Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth
Kick-off: 5:45pm local / 10:45am Irish
TV: Sky Sports

Match Preview

The British & Irish Lions open their 2025 tour with a clash against Western Force at Optus Stadium, Perth. It’s a historic moment — the Lions’ first fixture since their dramatic 2021 series against South Africa and a vital warm-up ahead of next week’s 1888 Cup meeting with Argentina.

Dan Sheehan captains a stacked Lions XV that features eight Irish players, including backline firepower from James Lowe, Mack Hansen, and Garry Ringrose. Finn Russell and Tomos Williams form the half-back pairing in what looks to be an attacking side.

Up front, it’s a typically abrasive Lions pack with Tadhg Furlong, Josh van der Flier, and Tadhg Beirne offering Test-level class. Young back-rower Henry Pollock also earns a start after his electric rise through the England U20s system.

The Western Force side is far from full strength, with several of their regular starters away on Wallabies duty ahead of the Test against Fiji. However, six internationals — including Nic White (captain), Tom Robertson, and Ben Donaldson — are named in the run-on XV.

The emotional subplot surrounds Ollie Hoskins and Sam Carter, both of whom will retire after this fixture. Hoskins, a Cottesloe native, gets a fitting send-off in front of his home crowd.

🦁 Lions Starting XV

15. Elliot Daly
14. Mack Hansen
13. Garry Ringrose
12. Sione Tuipulotu
11. James Lowe
10. Finn Russell
9. Tomos Williams
1. Pierre Schoeman
2. Dan Sheehan (c)
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Scott Cummings
5. Joe McCarthy
6. Tadhg Beirne
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Henry Pollock

Replacements:

Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Jack Conan, Alex Mitchell, Huw Jones, Marcus Smith

🏉 Western Force Starting XV

1. Tom Robertson
2. Brandon Paenga-Amosa
3. Ollie Hoskins
4. Sam Carter
5. Darcy Swain
6. Will Harris
7. Nick Champion de Crespigny
8. Vaiolini Ekuasi
9. Nic White (c)
10. Alex Harford
11. Dylan Pietsch
12. Hamish Stewart
13. Matt Proctor
14. Mac Grealy
15. Ben Donaldson

Replacements:

Nic Dolly, Marley Pearce, Tiaan Tauakipulu, Lopeti Faifua, Reed Prinsep, Henry Robertson, Max Burey, Bayley Kuenzle

📋 Match Notes

  • 10 Irish players feature in the Lions 23, with Sheehan captaining the side.
  • This is the first official Lions game since the 2021 tour to South Africa.
  • Several Wallabies stars are unavailable for the Force due to national team duty.
  • Kick-off: 5:45pm local (Perth) / 10:45am Irish time.
  • Expect large attendance in Perth and a fast-paced contest under perfect conditions.

Olympic Sport Ireland adds six sports

OFI Welcomes Six New Full Members at AGM as Focus Turns to LA 2028

Date: 25 June 2025
Location: Alex Hotel, Dublin

The Olympic Federation of Ireland (OFI) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) this week, where representatives from across Irish sport gathered to reflect on the success of Paris 2024 and chart the path towards Milano Cortina 2026 and Los Angeles 2028.

A major highlight of the evening was the unanimous approval of six sporting bodies for full membership:

  • 🇮🇪 Ireland Lacrosse
  • 🏈 American Football Ireland
  • 🏏 Cricket Ireland
  • 🎾 Squash Ireland
  • 🥎 Softball Ireland
  • ⚾ Baseball Ireland

Minister of State Charlie McConalogue opened the meeting, congratulating Team Ireland on their historic success at the Paris 2024 Games — the most successful Olympics in Irish history. His message set a tone of ambition and pride as the sporting community now looks ahead to future Games.

OFI President Lochlann Walsh updated members on recent international agreements, including Ireland’s involvement in an Erasmus-supported initiative through the European Olympic Committees (EOC) to unlock new EU sports funding opportunities.

Governance improvements were also approved during the AGM, including:

  • Special Resolution A: New procedures for mid-term board election vacancies.
  • Special Resolution B: Voting rights confirmed for the Athletes’ Commission at AGMs and EGMs.
  • Special Resolution C: General updates to modernise and clarify the OFI Constitution.

The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) was conditionally approved for full membership pending completion of membership criteria.

OFI CEO Peter Sherrard presented a positive financial and strategic outlook, noting developments in commercial growth, philanthropy, and collaboration with the Federation of Irish Sport. He also called for stronger ties with the education and health sectors to maximise long-term sporting opportunities.

Chef de Missions Gavin Noble and Nancy Chillingworth provided detailed reports on preparations for LA 2028 and Milano Cortina 2026, while Athletes’ Commission Chair Aifric Keogh urged all National Federations to establish athlete representative bodies.

“We are very excited to welcome the six new full members, as we look forward to their journey towards LA 2028,” said OFI President Lochlann Walsh. “Thank you to all members for supporting the continued strengthening of our governance.”

This AGM closely follows International Olympic Day, marking a timely celebration of Irish sporting progress. The OFI Annual Report, featuring reflections on Paris 2024 and forward-looking strategies, is available to read here.

Click here to download photos from the AGM.

Des Cahill Slams Mayo GAA Over McStay Departure: “No Class”

Des Cahill Slams Mayo GAA Over McStay Departure: “No Class”

Veteran RTÉ broadcaster Des Cahill has launched a scathing attack on Mayo GAA following the announcement that Kevin McStay and his management team have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect.

In a post shared on social media, Cahill accused Mayo GAA of showing “absolutely no class” and being “totally insensitive” to McStay, who has been involved with Mayo football since his teenage years.

“I wonder if Mayo sponsors stand over the tone and language used in dumping a genuine management group, who admittedly failed to win an All-Ireland – like every predecessor since 1951!!” Cahill wrote.

His remarks came shortly after Mayo GAA issued a statement confirming that McStay had been removed from his position as manager of the senior football team, effective immediately. The statement followed a Coiste Bainistíochta meeting held at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park on Wednesday, 25 June.

The Mayo GAA statement read:

“A decision was made to relieve Kevin McStay and his management team from their roles with the Mayo Senior Football Team with immediate effect.

We would like to sincerely thank Kevin and his management team for their time, effort, and commitment… Their dedication to the players and the jersey has been greatly appreciated by all involved with Mayo GAA.”

Despite the statement including well-wishes and gratitude for McStay’s service, Cahill took issue with what he felt was a cold and dismissive tone. The former “The Sunday Game” presenter suggested that the way the decision was handled lacked basic decency and failed to acknowledge McStay’s long-standing service.

McStay, a former Roscommon manager and respected pundit, took charge of Mayo ahead of the 2023 season. While he failed to deliver the elusive All-Ireland title, many supporters praised his style of play and the development of younger talent.

Cahill’s public criticism is likely to spark further debate over how county boards handle managerial transitions and the human side of decision-making in elite GAA structures.

“Liverpool”— the pride of fans, a club that doesn’t know how to lose gracefully

When, in 1892, a group of dissatisfied Everton directors decided to create their own club, hardly anyone could have imagined that, more than a century later, Liverpool would become a legend of world football.

The story began with a trivial conflict over the lease of Anfield Stadium — how many great stories begin with petty squabbles!

The newly formed team’s first match in the Lancashire League against Higher Walton ended in an 8-0 defeat. Apparently, the guys had serious ambitions from the very beginning. By 1901, the “Reds” were already celebrating their first championship title, and five years later they repeated their success. Not bad for a newcomer. Many fans, including those who use the official 1xBet mobile app for Irish users, follow the team’s games precisely because of this rich history. However, the following decades were not so rosy. After a couple of titles in the 1920s, there was a long drought that lasted until 1947. Apparently, the football gods decided to test the patience of Liverpool fans.

Shankly changes everything

1959 was a turning point when Bill Shankly joined the team. This Scotsman had a rare gift: he could fire up players with a single glance and a few words. His charisma was so powerful that even opponents sometimes forgot who they were playing for. Websites such as Balls offer detailed sports statistics, allowing fans to follow results and current trends.

In five years, Shankly pulled Liverpool out of the second division and made them champions again in 1964. And in 1965, the long-awaited moment arrived — the first FA Cup in the club’s history. Fans still remember that day as a national holiday.

By 1973, the UEFA Cup was added to the trophy collection. Liverpool was rapidly transforming from an ordinary English team into a European giant.

Peasley and the golden years

When Shankly unexpectedly retired, many thought it was the end of an era. But Bob Paisley, his quiet and modest assistant, proved to be an even more successful coach. Under his leadership, the club won the European Cup three times, in 1977, 1978, and 1981. The 1977 final against Borussia Mönchengladbach was particularly memorable, with the “Reds” winning 3–1. That match is still considered the benchmark for team play. At the same time, other areas are actively developing in the country, according to information from the website  https://midlandsbusinessnews.co.uk/the-midlands-a-thriving-epicentre-for-gaming-businesses-and-events/, football remains an indisputable symbol of national unity and pride. The 1970s and early 1980s were a golden age not only for the club but for English football as a whole. Liverpool played such beautiful football that even neutral fans came to Anfield just to watch.

The numbers speak for themselves

“Liverpool” is one of the most successful clubs not only in England but also in the world:

20 league titles (the last one in 2020, after a 30-year hiatus!);
6 Champions League victories — a record among English teams;
10 League Cups — an absolute English record;
3 UEFA Cups plus the Club World Cup.

These figures impress even skeptics. There are also personal records that seem unattainable. Ian Callaghan played 857 matches for the club — can you imagine how many kilometers that is on the field? And Ian Rush scored 346 goals, many of them in key games.

The Istanbul miracle

2005 gave fans perhaps the most dramatic final in the history of the Champions League. In Istanbul, Liverpool faced Milan, the tournament favorites. At halftime, the score was 0-3 in favor of the Italians, and it seemed that it was all over. But the “Reds” are not famous for their character for nothing. In the second half, they came back to tie the score at 3:3. It is thanks to matches like this that Premier League betting in Ireland is so popular today, because football is sometimes capable of real miracles. And then they won on penalties. The “Miracle of Istanbul” became a new chapter in the club’s mythology.

Many fans started supporting Liverpool from that day on. How can you not love a team capable of such miracles?

Return to the top

After Istanbul, there were many years of disappointment. The club seemed to have lost its recipe for success in major tournaments. Coaches changed, players came and went, and titles went to others. Websites such as Cork Sports News offer detailed sports statistics. Everything changed with the arrival of Jürgen Klopp in 2015. This German with an infectious smile and boundless energy managed to restore Liverpool’s winning spirit.

Live GAA on TV this weekend

We have the list of live GAA matches that will be broadcast live by RTE, TG4, GAAGO Sky Sports & RTE, here are the fixtures Hurling and Gaelic Football league and championships.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE GAA SCORES AND COMMENTARY

🏆 GAA Summer Showdowns: Full Fixture List (28 June – 10 August)

The business end of the GAA season is here! All-Ireland quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals are set to light up Croke Park and beyond — across football, hurling, camogie and ladies football. Here’s the full list of key fixtures coming up:

📅 Saturday 28 June

  • All-Ireland SFC Quarter-Finals: Tyrone v Dublin, 6.15pm – GAA+ | Monaghan v Donegal, 4pm – GAA+
  • Camogie Senior Championship Round 5: Wexford v Cork | Tipperary v Clare | Galway v Waterford | Dublin v Derry
  • Ladies IFC Relegation Semi-Final: Down v Offaly, 2pm
  • All-Ireland MHC Final: Clare v Waterford, 5.15pm – TG4

📅 Sunday 29 June

  • All-Ireland SFC Quarter-Finals: Meath v Galway, 1.45pm – RTE | Armagh v Kerry, 4pm – RTE
  • Ladies IFC Quarter-Finals: Laois v Wexford | Tyrone v Fermanagh | Clare v Monaghan | Cavan v Westmeath
  • IFC Relegation Semi-Final: Roscommon v Wicklow

📅 Saturday 5 July

  • All-Ireland SHC Semi-Final: Cork v Dublin, 5pm – RTE/BBC
  • Ladies SFC Quarter-Finals: Kerry v Kildare | Dublin v Cork | Galway v Waterford (TBC)
  • Camogie Quarter-Final: TBC v TBC, Croke Park

📅 Sunday 6 July

  • All-Ireland SHC Semi-Final: Kilkenny v Tipperary, 4pm – RTE/BBC
  • Camogie Quarter-Final: TBC v TBC, Croke Park
  • Ladies SFC Quarter-Final: Meath v Tipperary, 5.15pm
  • All-Ireland MFC Final: Tyrone v Kerry, 1.30pm – TG4

📅 Friday 11 July

  • All-Ireland JFC Semi-Finals: New York v TBC | Kilkenny v TBC (Abbotstown)

📅 Saturday 12 July

  • All-Ireland SFC Semi-Final: TBC v TBC, 5pm – RTE/BBC
  • Tailteann Cup Final: Kildare v Limerick, 2.30pm – RTE

📅 Sunday 13 July

  • All-Ireland SFC Semi-Final: TBC v TBC, 4pm – RTE/BBC
  • All-Ireland JFC Final: TBC v TBC, 1.30pm

📅 Saturday 19 July

  • Ladies SFC Semi-Finals: Kerry/Kildare v Meath/Tipperary | Dublin/Cork v Galway/Waterford (Glenisk O’Connor Park)

📅 Sunday 20 July

  • All-Ireland SHC Final: Cork/Dublin v Kilkenny/Tipperary, 3.30pm

📅 Saturday 26 July

  • Camogie Semi-Finals: TBC v TBC, Nowlan Park

📅 Sunday 27 July

  • All-Ireland SFC Final: TBC v TBC, 3.30pm

📅 Sunday 3 August

  • Ladies All-Ireland SFC Final: TBC v TBC, Croke Park

📅 Sunday 10 August

  • Camogie All-Ireland Senior Final: TBC v TBC, Croke Park

#GAA2025 #AllIreland #MaroonArmy

Lambourn Leads Epsom Trio into Curragh Classic Clash

Lambourn Leads Epsom Trio into Curragh Classic Clash

The Curragh Racecourse is braced for a spectacular showdown in the 160th Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby this Sunday, with a rematch on the cards between the top three finishers from this year’s Epsom Derby.

Aidan O’Brien’s unbeaten colt Lambourn, a son of 2014 Irish Derby hero Australia, headlines the 10-strong field. After a dominant Epsom victory, Ryan Moore’s mount is set to face his closest challengers once again: Lazy Griff for Charlie Johnston and Tennessee Stud for Joseph O’Brien.

Joseph O’Brien, who won this race both as a jockey and trainer, is quietly optimistic: “We were very proud of Tennessee Stud’s run in Epsom. He came home strongly and is open to plenty of improvement. We’d love him to run another career best at the Curragh.”

Ralph Beckett will field two contenders: Pride Of Arras, winner of the Dante Stakes, and Sir Dinadan. Meanwhile, Jessica Harrington saddles Green Impact, who bounced back from a gutsy Guineas run to win at Leopardstown.

Lambourn’s stablemates Puppet Master, Shackleton and Thrice round out the possible Derby runners.

Festival Highlights and Feature Races

Ireland’s most prestigious flat race headlines a stacked nine-race card that includes seven contests worth €100,000 and the €50,000 Dubai Duty Free Irish EBF Stayers Handicap.

The sprinting elite are also in action with the Jebel Ali Racecourse & Stables Dash Stakes, where defending champion My Mate Alfie could return for Ger Lyons. Meanwhile, Lord Massusus may line up in the Colm McLoughlin Celebration Stakes for Joe Murphy.

The three-day Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival begins on Friday with an eight-race card. On Saturday, Group 1 action arrives with a hot renewal of the Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes, featuring Aidan O’Brien’s Oaks runner-up Whirl, and Wemightakedlongway for Joseph O’Brien.

Pretty Polly Set for International Showdown

Andrew Balding’s Group 1 winner Kalpana returns after placing in the Tattersalls Gold Cup, while French trainer Nicolas Clement could send Survie, a Group 1 runner-up.

Paddy Twomey – winner in 2022 with La Petite Coco – has a strong hand with six entries, including One Look and Purple Lily, both Classic-placed fillies.

Saturday’s racing also pays tribute to the late Kevin Prendergast, with the Group 3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai International Stakes run in his memory. Malih Al Basti praised the legendary trainer’s contribution to racing: “Kevin was a dear friend and his legacy lives on through the generations he influenced.”

Dermot Weld’s Elizabeth Jane could feature in the race, having last won the Trigo Stakes at Leopardstown.

More Group Action on Super Saturday

The Group 2 Airlie Stud Stakes could see unbeaten filly Lady Iman stretch her winning streak for Ger Lyons.

Aidan O’Brien’s Brussels and Flushing Meadows top the field for the Group 3 Jebel Ali Racecourse Anglesey Stakes, with Suzie Songs among the challengers for Lyons again.

And in a storybook subplot, Pat O’Donnell and daughter Sylvia could renew their Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes Ladies Derby fairytale with Hemight, aiming to replicate their memorable 2022 triumph.