As the Dublin Racing Festival unfurls its colorful pageantry at Leopardstown, seasoned enthusiasts know it’s not just about the big names from the top yards. This year, five under-the-radar runners might just steal the spotlight with their grit and potential.
Mozzies Sister’s Stamina Set to Shine
Mozzies Sister, a mare with stamina to spare, is aiming to make waves in the Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Solicitors Novice Hurdle on Saturday. Under the guidance of Declan Queally, she’s shown her ability to hang tough against formidable fields. Last May, she impressively held her own by splitting Familiar Dreams and Aurora Vega in a Grade 3 bumper. Although her maiden hurdle victory at Galway was not that sparkling, her step up to two and a half miles revealed her true mettle. Suffering from sedate paces at times, her workmanlike finish behind The Yellow Clay at Navan saw her match steps with top tier runners. With Queally’s team in top form, she could spring a surprise this weekend.
Thisistheway Points to Improvement
Thisistheway, trained by Yvonne Latta, is gearing up for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Paddy and Maureen Mullins Mares Handicap Hurdle on Sunday. Last seen cruising to a confident victory at Down Royal, it was a welcome return to form after a blip at Wexford. Benefiting from a patient approach and firmer ground, she charged clear two weeks ago, a run that saw her reassessed at 11lb higher. Yet, carrying 10st 7lb might still be her ace in the hole. Having shown promise behind this weekend’s competitors last May, Thisistheway remains a mare with untapped potential.
Marine Nationale on the Comeback Trail
Marine Nationale’s journey back to prominence continues. Not long ago, Barry Connell’s charge was a name whispered with respect, especially after triumphs at the Royal Bond and Supreme Novices’ Hurdles. Although his recent path has encountered setbacks, his December run against Solness and Gaelic Warrior marked a return to form. Sunday sees him once again pit his skills against these rivals. With further improvement anticipated, Marine Nationale is keen to remind onlookers of his top-class prospects.
Promise Abounds in Amen Kate
Amen Kate steps into the Coolmore N.H. Sires Luxembourg Irish EBF Mares I.N.H. Flat Race as a horse of potential rather than proven pedigree. Bought for a tidy sum, her debut at Listowel was a winning reflection of her dam Augusta Kate’s capabilities. With an impressive seven and a half lengths victory under her belt, and a race working out handsomely since, this step up in grade will test her limits. Yet, there’s a quiet confidence attached to this mare’s undoubted ability and future potential.
Brave Troop Marching Forward
Brave Troop has made a habit of defying expectations. Having recently changed hands to Charles Byrnes, he’s enjoying an upward trend punctuated by a stylish win at Thurles followed by another strong performance at Navan. Despite being saddled with a 14lb rise after demolishing his field at Navan, Byrnes’s straightforward confidence suggests Brave Troop hasn’t reached his peak. The upcoming listed contest provides a logical stage for him to further stamp his claim as one to watch.
