1

Transcending Glory

Made a successful transition from the all-weather to turf last season, and wide draw (14) at Chester didn’t help on reappearance. One to note if supported in the betting.

2

Merlin The Wizard

Some of the import’s British form makes for very good reading. Likely to improve for return sixth at Navan. Interesting outsider.

3

Chicago Fireball

Enjoyed productive 2024 campaign but hasn’t reflected those positive numbers so far this season. Raced keenly last time at Cork (sixth) but clearly capable of better.

4

Plume Noire

In better form in the first half of last season. Unraced since August and has introductory run for current trainer.

5

Four Blondes

Got a bit isolated when unplaced at Naas last time. Defends an otherwise mainly consistent record and not impossible for a place.

6

Shavasi

From a top yard, the filly improved steadily last season (two wins), and likely to improve for encouraging fifth (14-1) in a competitive fillies’ heat at Gowran Park.

7

Merisi Diamond

This dual course winner is very useful on his day and Limerick fourth in April was a step in the right direction.

8

Genuine Article

Ran some good races in defeat last season. As yet unraced this term so fitness needs to be taken on trust. Each way possibilities.

9

Marakesh

This late maturing and lightly raced mare has shown definitive signs of ability. Outran her 28-1 odds when second to a subsequent Listed placed customer at Gowran Park, and likely to continue on the upgrade.

10

Pinar Del Rio

Improved considerably last season and plenty of encouragement to be had by return effort when just touched off at Naas.

11

Verhoyen

The veteran can still show up on occasions (successful at Fairyhouse last July), but five consecutive unplaced efforts since then are hardly an advertisement for his chances.

12

Eyema Candy Girl

Failed to build on winning debut following return trip to Dundalk, but didn’t help her cause by starting slowly that day.

13

Port Louis

Snapped an 11-race losing streak in an apprentices’ race at Cork last time, but more required now.

14

Goal Exceeded

Has tended to show his better form over shorter trips, and 2024 gelding operation hasn’t brought a turnaround in his fortunes. Market may be the best guide.

15

Rappell

Stepped up to win three times last season. Hasn’t been seen to his best effect this season but could surprise.

16

Black Storm

Hasn’t built on maiden win on the Dundalk all-weather in October to date, and so point to prove on 2025 return.

17

Gordon Bennett

His best days look to be behind him. Ran a fair race to be third here two starts back but didn’t back that up when a beaten favourite earlier in the month.

18

Genesis

Not devoid of ability but he can be a tricky ride and his form is largely uninspiring this season.

19

Just For One Day

Has shown flashes of temperament but that didn’t prevent her from opening her account here in September. Below form since and difficult to gauge her chances on seasonal debut.

20

Penny Mountain

This lightly-raced maiden is coming off a fourth at this course and faces a tough task on that evidence.

21

Secret Magician

Has been on a mainly downward spiral since Naas success in August, and yet to raise his game this season.