This is a highly competitive handicap at Curragh with a variety of horses coming into the contest with compelling claims. Given the information provided, we can assess the top contenders based on their total ratings, and delve deeper into their forms and recent performances to identify the potential standouts.

1. Stag Night (428.4 total rating): With the highest total rating, Stag Night clearly stands out as a horse to watch. Despite having been off the course for 13 months, he did manage to achieve a career-best result at this course and distance, which bodes well for his chances here. His trainer’s current good form is also a positive sign.
2. Dandyville (407.2 total rating): Dandyville appears to be in excellent form, having achieved a four-timer at Naas earlier this month. Despite a 10lb increase in the weights, his progressive profile and recent performances suggest that he has a solid chance to extend his winning streak in this race.
3. Hurricane Ivor (404.3 total rating): With a Group 3 victory in 2021 to his name, Hurricane Ivor brings a strong track record into this contest. Although he’ll need to return to that sort of form to take this, he did manage to win over this course and distance last month, indicating that he can still perform at a high level.
4. Carrytheone (372.7 total rating): Although he hasn’t won since 2021, Carrytheone started his career promisingly and his best form has come over a longer distance. The addition of cheekpieces for the first time could be an intriguing factor that might boost his performance.
5. Gustavus Weston (358.3 total rating): A three-time winner over the course and distance, Gustavus Weston has plenty of experience to bring to this race. He hasn’t managed a victory since 2021, but his return to his preferred trip could see him pose a serious threat, although he may prefer slightly softer ground conditions.

Other noteworthy runners based on comments include:

• Tawaazon: Despite being lower down the ratings, he’s in the form of his life and was only narrowly beaten at Navan earlier this month. The 5lb higher mark could be overcome considering that previous race was competitive, and he’s proven over this longer trip.
• Jon Riggens: Another horse not in the top-rated group, he won over Tawaazon in a Navan maiden recently, and though this race will demand more, he’s shown promise. He’s up 7lb but could still be in contention.

In summary, Stag Night, Dandyville, and Hurricane Ivor, with their high total ratings, look to be the primary contenders in this race. However, the likes of Tawaazon and Jon Riggens could pose a threat based on recent performances and potential to improve. It promises to be an exciting race with a strong field of contenders.