The Carmel Kirwan and Loretta O’Hanlon Memorial Madrid Handicap is set to take place at Naas Racecourse on Sunday, March 26th, 2023. This 7-furlong Premier Handicap race for 3-year-olds will see some talented horses battling it out on heavy ground. Let’s take a closer look at the contenders and their chances of coming out on top.

1. Basil Martini After a surprise victory in the Group 3 Weld Park Stakes, Basil Martini went on to perform disappointingly at the Breeders’ Cup. However, with an effective apprentice claiming a useful 7lb, she should not be discounted. The heavy ground may be in her favor, making her a strong contender.
2. Bossy Parker A nursery winner at the Curragh and Cork, Bossy Parker has struggled to maintain that form in stronger company. With cheekpieces on and concerns about being high in the weights, it’s tough to see him making a significant impact in this race.
3. Duke Of Leggagh Despite winning a Galway nursery on heavy ground last October, Duke Of Leggagh is now 12lb out of the handicap. This weight disadvantage means he faces a significant challenge in this race.
4. Imadpour Imadpour showed promise when winning a Cork maiden on testing ground but failed to impress on better ground at Dundalk and Leopardstown. Back on heavy ground, he’s worth considering for the shortlist.
5. King Of Scotia A dual runner-up in quality maidens, King Of Scotia finally got his win at Dundalk in December. However, the heavy ground at Naas poses a new challenge for this contender, raising questions about his ability to adapt.
6. Londoner After a comfortable win at Dundalk, Londoner seems to be the second-string choice for his powerful yard. His ability to stay further means he should finish strong, but he’s not the top pick among his stablemates.
7. Paddington Paddington showed significant improvement from his Ascot debut to win a Curragh maiden on easy ground. The top choice of his yard’s pair, Paddington commands respect and has potential for further improvement.
8. Panic Alarm A Down Royal maiden winner and EBF Series final victor at Naas, Panic Alarm has proven his ability to handle softer ground. With an 8lb increase for his last win, Panic Alarm remains a contender, especially considering his record of performing well fresh.
9. Semblance Of Order Despite not winning in five starts last season, Semblance Of Order managed two runner-up finishes in maidens. However, he disappointed on soft ground in his last outing and is 1lb out of the handicap, making it difficult to back him with confidence.
10. Trachonitus After a solid performance in maidens, Trachonitus won his handicap debut at the Curragh on heavy ground. Although 3lb higher today, the ground should suit him, but he might prefer an additional furlong.

In conclusion, the Carmel Kirwan and Loretta O’Hanlon Memorial Madrid Handicap promises to be an exciting showdown, with heavy ground likely to play a significant role. Paddington and Imadpour stand out as top contenders, but don’t discount Basil Martini, who could benefit from the 7lb claim. Keep an eye on Panic Alarm, who might surprise with a strong performance after a break.