Mon 7th Aug 2023
2.33 Cork (11 runners)
Fermoy Handicap Hurdle
2m1f 

Based on the provided rankings and comments for each horse, here are my top 3 contenders for the Fermoy Handicap Hurdle at Cork:

1. Sequoiaspirit (IRE): This horse has been in the best form of its career, notably on the Flat, having won twice and reached a mark of 76. It also posted a commendable hurdles run at Downpatrick recently. This combination of strong Flat performance and recent hurdles form positions it as a strong contender for the race.
2. Douglas Dc (IRE): A past Tramore maiden hurdle winner, Douglas Dc has been running respectably on the Flat this season, though it was slightly below its best last time. Given that it performs best on good ground, which seems to be the case for this race, Douglas Dc stands a chance to be involved at the forefront.
3. Brookie (IRE): This horse won a maiden hurdle last winter and put up impressive performances at Leopardstown and the Punchestown festival. Additionally, Brookie tends to perform well fresh, which can be a crucial factor. The only concern is the current performance of the yard, which has been described as “a bit quiet.”

Mon 7th Aug 2023
3.08 Cork (18 runners)
Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle
2m2½f

Based on the data presented, here are my top three contenders for the Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle at Cork:

1. Baltic Bird: Not only is Baltic Bird leading the rankings with a total score of 293.6, but the comments also highlight that it is a well-bred sort that was a Flat maiden winner in 2022. If it manages to improve its jumping, it has a strong chance.
2. Mistys Gift (IRE): Misty’s Gift, with a score of 270.3, has a series of positive comments backing its potential. With multiple maiden hurdle placings including here over 3m and its recent performance in 2m6f Limerick contest last month, it seems to be a strong contender.
3. Minella Diamond (IRE): With a score of 265.7, Minella Diamond is the third-highest in the rankings and has shown good form in both point starts and bumpers, including an impressive performance at Killarney last month. Its transition to hurdles could be a successful one, making it a promising contender.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
3.25 Naas (7 runners)
Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap
6f

Based on the rankings, comments, and performance data, my top three contenders for the 3.25 at Naas would be:

1. Ostraka (IRE): This horse had an impressive win during its debut at Curragh and though it couldn’t replicate the same success at Fairyhouse, it wasn’t shamed either. The ground conditions might suit Ostraka, given that the dam won on soft ground. Given the time it’s had to mature, coupled with the idea that it might be capable of winning off its current mark, this horse stands out as a strong contender.
2. Craft Irish (IRE): This mare has a history of performing well, with four wins spanning 5f-7f. Her recent performances at this course have been promising, especially the fourth in a Listed race on soft ground last month. Considering the form of the yard recently, she appears to have a good chance.
3. Wave Machine (FR): The recent form suggests an improvement, especially with a third-place finish out of 15 over the C&D on soft ground last month. The horse also has a win history on heavy ground and is currently 2lb lower, which might provide an edge in this competition.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
4.18 Cork (6 runners)
E. Tarrant & Sons, Banteer Hurdle
2m2½f

Based on the rankings and comments provided, here are my top 3 contenders:

1. Cash Back (FR): The most consistent front-runner and has been running well in hurdle races this season. While the horse was well-beaten in the Galway Hurdle, this race is much less competitive. The horse is well-treated, making it a strong contender if it can bounce back.
2. Suprise Package: Winner of the Imperial Cup in 2022, this horse has been in good form. Recently, it has been competitive in Flat runs and narrowly missed a win at Ballinrobe. The horse is well-treated and seems to be the top contender.
3. Plains Indian (IRE): This horse is a three-time hurdle winner, including a victory in Listed company. Despite a poor last start, the horse has run respectably in Flat races. The challenge is that it has to give weight to some of the other competitors, but if it can overcome this, it could be a strong contender.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
4.35 Naas (8 runners)
Ballyroan Stakes (Group 3)
1m4f 

Based on the rankings and comments provided, here are my top 3 contenders:

1. Vauban (FR): The horse is a Listed winner in France and has been very impressive in recent races, including a significant victory in a 1m6f Royal Ascot handicap. It seems to have adapted well to the level and has been able to compete with the best. Its current odds are also favourable, suggesting that it has a strong chance of winning.
2. Layfayette (IRE): A very capable performer with a good record at this track. Had a string of wins last year and recently won a 1m4f Limerick Listed contest in June. Despite not being at its best on quicker ground, the softer conditions at this track should be more suitable, increasing its chances of a good performance.
3. Valiant King: This horse has shown potential for higher marks, having performed well in previous races. It almost won a Leopardstown handicap off 83 and was narrowly defeated in a 1m4f Royal Ascot handicap. The horse that beat it, who gave it 2lb, went on to win a Goodwood Group 3 last week and is now a St Leger contender. This suggests that Valiant King has the ability to compete at this level.

Mon 7th Aug 2023 4.45 Ayr (8 runners) Sunday Market At Ayr Racecourse Handicap 5f

Based on the ratings and the comments for each horse, here are my top three contenders for the 4.45 at Ayr:

1. Lady Celia – With the highest rating of 395.4, she has the strongest form coming into this race. She won fairly comfortably at Nottingham (5f, soft) last month and remains well handicapped based on her previous performances. Furthermore, the drying ground condition for this race is expected to suit her, making her a major player.
2. Global Humor – Despite the second highest rating of 389.8, this horse seems to have some good performances at this course in the past, winning two races this season (6f/7f). Moreover, the drop back to 5f shouldn’t be a problem for him given his previous performances. He’s a solid contender if he can run to his best form.
3. The Caltonian – The third pick is a bit more competitive, but I’d suggest The Caltonian with a rating of 303.8. This 4yo horse was close second when dropped to 6f for his handicap debut here (good to firm) in June. He didn’t run badly two weeks ago on good to soft ground, and the drop to 5f may suit him.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
4.53 Cork (18 runners)
Kanturk Handicap Hurdle (80-109)
2m2½f 

Based on the rankings and the comments, my top 3 contenders for the Kanturk Handicap Hurdle would be:

1. Search For A Myth (IRE): It is ranked first on the list and has recently shown good form by winning over hurdles at Wexford and a Tipperary handicap chase. Even though it is 9lb higher today, it still has to be respected based on its recent performances.
2. King Ferdinand (IRE): It’s ranked second and has hit form again on its last two starts, winning over fences and hurdles at Tipperary. However, it is taking a significant drop in trip today off a 6lb higher mark. A non-runner in the 1.50 at Galway Sunday, it seems worth watching.
3. Onlyamatteroftime (IRE): Despite being further down the list, it’s worth considering because it was awarded a Punchestown bumper after suffering interference (the winner won easily at Galway last week) and had a decent Roscommon maiden hurdle run. The fact that it is respected on handicap debut also lends to its consideration.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
5.05 Ripon (7 runners)
Queen Ethelburgas Collegiate Handicap
1m2f

Based on the provided ratings and the comments for each horse, here are my top three contenders for the 5.05 at Ripon:

1. Zarabanda (IRE) – With the highest rating of 496.4, Zarabanda seems to be in fine form. Her recent victory at Nottingham over 1m in soft conditions, combined with the impression that she’ll be as effective over today’s 1m2f distance, makes her a strong contender. Additionally, she’s only up 1lb from her last win, which adds to her appeal.
2. Lerwick – This horse is the sole 3yo in the race and remains unexposed, making him a potential wild card. His recent win at Pontefract, where he led from start to finish, suggests he’s in form. Although he has only raced over 1m, the comments suggest that he should stay the distance of 1m2f, especially considering his dam’s lineage. Being open to further improvement and only up 4lb from his last win, Lerwick definitely warrants consideration.
3. Poet’s Dawn – While he is the oldest contender and hasn’t secured a win in his recent outings, his second-place finish in a C&D event in soft conditions just 16 days ago suggests he’s in form. He’s 1lb below his last winning mark, which makes him competitive in this field.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
5.20 Ayr (8 runners)
Ayrshire Cancer Support Handicap
1m2f

Based on the rankings, comments, and performance data, my top three contenders for the 5.20 at Ayr would be:

1. Rory The Cat (IRE): The horse has had strong recent form with 2 wins in the last 4 races under the new stable. The latest 3lb rise does not look excessive and it is quite plausible that the horse has more improvement to come. The distance is also well-suited to this horse’s past performances.
2. Ayr Poet: It looked in great shape during its clearcut 1m course win a week ago, and it is effectively only 3lb higher under the 5lb penalty today. This horse also handles a longer trip and is versatile regarding ground conditions.
3. Ice Shadow (IRE): This horse recently got off the mark at the 14th attempt when dominating from the front at Nottingham last month. Even though it’s 5lb higher here, the drying ground and unexposed distance make it a respectable contender.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
5.45 Naas (16 runners)
Weatherbys GSB Handicap (50-80)
1m2½f

Based on the provided rankings and comments, my top 3 contenders for the race would be:

1. Church Mountain (IRE) – Despite some doubts over the longer trip and revised terms, Church Mountain has been a three-time winner and gave a solid performance on his stable debut. He recently won at Killarney, showing good form and competitiveness.
2. Golden Spangle (IRE) – Recently a maiden winner at Down Royal, Golden Spangle is known for her reliability. She has had a good run in the early season with solid handicap form. The addition of cheekpieces might enhance her performance.
3. Mr Mills (IRE) – Mr Mills showed a liking for soft ground when he won a large-field contest at Navan. Despite a slow start at Gowran, he still managed a respectable third, indicating his capability in the face of adversity.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
6.00 Windsor (6 runners)
Fitzdares Is Your Personal Bookmaker Handicap
5f 

Based on the Total ranking, form, and other factors, here are my top three contenders for the 6.00 at Windsor:

1. Sera Dawn: Ranked first in the total rankings and has shown good form, especially on slower ground which is expected today. Even though she has been held in her last three starts, her third place at Sandown was against a well-backed improver. Dropping back in grade here, she seems a strong contender.
2. Penguin Island: Although third in total rankings, she has a recent win at Chepstow on her resume and performed well in both her previous runs on soft ground. This race is expected to be on heavy ground, and this previous success in similar conditions is encouraging.
3. Sergeant Pep (IRE): While fourth in the rankings, Sergeant Pep has shown consistency in handicaps this season. His performance at Wolverhampton where he finished fifth after leading shows potential. His falling mark and the return to this trip could prove advantageous.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
7.30 Windsor (15 runners)
Fitzdares Sprint Series Final Handicap
6f

Based on the total ratings and the given comments about each horse, my top 3 contenders for the race would be:

1. Haymaker – Haymaker has a strong total rating of 589.8 and recent form looks promising. His last win was over C&D in May, and his recent second place finish on soft ground at Ascot indicates that he is comfortable on a variety of ground conditions. He’s returning to a higher grade, but given his past performances, he’s expected to compete strongly.
2. Knebworth – With a total rating of 520.2, Knebworth is in great recent form, winning his last two starts at Haydock and York. He’s been performing well on good to soft ground, which suits today’s conditions. Although he is 7lb higher than his last win, the comments suggest he still looks feasibly treated and is an interesting contender.
3. Lethal Nymph – Lethal Nymph has a total rating of 485.9 and is noted to be effective on both fast and slow ground. He won four times last season and recently came near to his best when runner-up over C&D last month. He’s only 1lb higher here and is expected to put in a good performance.

Mon 7th Aug 2023
8.30 Windsor (6 runners)
Download The Fitzdares App Now Handicap
1m2f

Based on the provided Total ranking, recent form, and the horse comments, here are the top three contenders for the 8.30 at Windsor:

1. Lawn Ranger: Ranked first in the total rankings and has had some solid efforts since his C&D win off this mark in April. The comment also mentions his proven ability in the mud, which is particularly important given the heavy going expected. This makes him a strong contender for this race.
2. Platinum Prince: Third in the rankings and is four times a winner, including over this distance. The comment suggests he ran well at Lingfield last month, which is a positive sign. While he handles soft ground, it’s noted that his two turf wins came on good ground. There’s a slight concern given the heavy conditions, but his overall form puts him in contention.
3. Oriental Art: Despite being fifth in the rankings, he has run well in five of his six starts this year, which suggests consistency. The booking of Oisin Murphy is also notable. While he has shown promise on good to soft ground, he is unraced on slower. The cheekpieces being back on could potentially lead to an improved performance.