Both turf wins came on quick ground at 7f-1m at Ayr; AW winner last winter and posted career-best on latest when only caught late on in 17-runner Curragh handicap over this trip last month; trip/ground remains in his favour, can go well again.
Three-time AW winner who sole turf success from nine starts came over this trip at Leopardstown in 2023 off 65; two runs in premier handicaps this season leave him with a bit to find although was out of the handicap last time; down in grade here and runs off his correct mark so don't rule out.
Off the mark at the fourth attempt in maidens last September at the Curragh (6f); safely held at same venue on last month's return (handicap debut) and plenty to find with second-placed Little Empire on that.
AW promise last year and off the mark on second turf run this year, sent on some way out under a positive ride over this trip at Leopardstown 13 days ago, relishing the quicker ground; 8lb rise looks plenty but quite likely has more to offer under these conditions.
Five wins between turf and AW for Johnny Murtagh; best effort for this yard came when fourth over 7f at the Curragh in April (soft), well held since; different headgear combination now tried.
Two-time AW winner is 0-14 on turf but has gone close in defeat, including at Down Royal on penultimate; too keen over 1m last time, will appreciate return to 7f.
Curragh maiden win came on soft but handled quicker ground well in Fairyhouse handicap early this month, albeit changed legs late on when headed; first attempt at 7f this season, possible vulnerable.
Needed every yard of this trip to justify strong market support on handicap debut at Fairyhouse a fortnight ago, getting up in three-way photo, still looking green; 7lb rise enough but this stiffer 7f should bring more out of him, major player.
1/5 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
