A fascinating and typically deep early-season Leopardstown maiden, often used as a launching pad for middle-distance types with Classic or Royal Ascot ambitions. This year’s edition is no different, featuring a mix of well-bred newcomers, potential improvers, and top connections. Notably, Aidan O’Brien has won 3 of the last 5 renewals and sends a powerful trio again.


—

Strongest Contender

GAME POINT (IRE)
(C. T. Keane / G. M. Lyons)

Timeform rating: 100p

Key Comment: “Looks to have a lot in his favour given the expected weak pace.”

Backed up a promising debut with a cracking second in a 27-runner maiden at the Curragh. The form has depth, and he shaped like this longer trip would unlock more. With Colin Keane likely to ride him prominently in a race lacking pace, he ticks nearly every box. Trainer Ger Lyons has been firing and does well with his early-season maidens at this track. Experience, profile, and tactical advantage make him a standout.



—

Main Dangers

STAY TRUE (IRE)
(Ryan Moore / Aidan O’Brien)

Timeform Comment: “Galileo colt partnered by Ryan Moore. Very likely type on paper.”

A 400,000gns Galileo colt out of a sprinting family, but the dam’s side contains plenty of stamina. Represents the yard that won this race in 2021 and 2024, and the Moore booking signals confidence. The stable often sends out debut winners in this slot, and this colt’s breeding screams improvement over middle distances. If handling the occasion, he could be very good.


KILCREA ROCK (IRE)
(D. McMonagle / Joseph O’Brien)

Timeform rating: 93p

Key Comment: “Confirmed debut promise when second at this track; open to further improvement.”

Well-backed on second start and ran a huge race behind a smart winner. The form looks solid, and he’s bred to stay this trip and beyond. The big worry is fitness after 172 days off, especially in a tactical race. Still, he’s a danger if tuned up.


ROOSEVELT (IRE)
(Declan McDonogh / Aidan O’Brien)

No form, but big profile – a 950,000gns Frankel colt out of a Lope de Vega mare.

Possibly not the number one in the yard’s pecking order (Moore is elsewhere), but clearly a horse of substance. Full brother to useful milers and could outclass this field on raw talent if ready.



—

Other Notables

GUN CARRIAGE (USA) (O’Brien’s third runner) is a $1.25 million yearling out of a sharp American dam. No clues on readiness, but the price tag alone keeps him on side.

KEYBOARD (IRE) (J S Bolger) made quiet late headway on debut and is open to improvement, but looks more of a long-term project.



—

Trainer Trends Watch

Aidan O’Brien has won this race 3 times in the past 5 years. His runners often go off shorter than form suggests and improve dramatically from debut to second start.

Ger Lyons is adept with spring maidens and typically places them smartly. Colin Keane riding Game Point is a big endorsement.

Joseph O’Brien is a threat in any conditions but can leave them a little short first time out.



—

Verdict

GAME POINT is the most solid option with race fitness, form, pace setup, and track experience all in his corner. He’s likely to sit handy and pounce, especially with the forecast slow gallop. STAY TRUE is the most intriguing newcomer and the biggest threat, especially if fully tuned. KILCREA ROCK is solid but could need the run, while ROOSEVELT remains the wildcard with the highest ceiling.