A competitive handicap over the extended mile brings together a big field of 4yo+ contenders, many with proven big-field form. The pace map suggests an even gallop, and with a draw bias favouring high numbers, positioning could be key. Timeform’s adjusted ratings highlight a few well-treated and in-form runners, while fitness and stable switch angles could throw up some value.


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Strongest Contender

Artful Approach (Timeform Rating: 101)
Returned with a cracking effort when second at Leopardstown (just behind Dark Viper), finishing best of all from a tricky position. He’s likely to come on for that run and boasts one of the best recent figures in the field. Previously a Galway winner on soft and drawn in stall 1 – not ideal for the shape of this race, but he’s progressive and should be finishing off powerfully again. One to beat if things open up late.


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Main Dangers

Masoun (TFR: 96)
Ends a 244-day absence but was an improved performer mid-season last year, completing a double at Down Royal and the Curragh before being sold to Joseph O’Brien for €105,000. He’s tried in blinkers for the first time and likely laid out for this return, but with no recent run, the market will be informative. One of the classier horses in the field and interesting on stable debut.

Lord Church (TFR: 97)
Another first-time-out horse with smart form in 2024, winning three on the bounce before running second at Naas. Now joins the Emmet Mullins yard, which always commands respect in Irish handicaps. Will be suited by the strong field and has ideal conditions, but again, fitness must be taken on trust. Any positive support would be notable.

Fort Vega (TFR: 98)
Comes here race-fit and on the back of an encouraging third at the Curragh. Has been slow to come to hand this season but is clearly on the way back. Drawn wide, which should suit on the day, and Colin Keane keeps the ride. He’s capable of winning a race like this off his current mark.

Tokenomics (TFR: 97)
No recent run, but his form last season includes multiple wins and a solid third at Dundalk. Often travels strongly and stays the trip well, but better ground may test his stamina more. Will need to be sharp on return, so market vibes again key.

Merisi Diamond (TFR: 100)
Ran below form last time but shaped as if needing the run after four months off. Prominent racer drawn wide and expected to be near the pace, which could suit given race shape. Smart form last backend and could take catching if getting loose up front. Not one to dismiss lightly.


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Lively Outsider

Usuario Amigo (TFR: 98)
Not seen since October but won a maiden readily at Brighton and was second in a big Newmarket handicap before that. Interesting stable switch to Ireland and looks underestimated at the prices. Could go well fresh and one to consider each-way, particularly if the market speaks.


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Trainers to Note

Jack Davison saddled the winner of this race in 2023 and has Bucaneer’s Spirit here. While recent form is below par, he’s dropped in the weights and wouldn’t be the biggest shock from a favourable draw.

Emmet Mullins, as always, warrants respect in these types of contests – Lord Church is his sole runner and could be targeted.



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Trends & Profile Pointers

8 of the last 10 winners were drawn in stall 10 or higher – high draws again favoured here based on Timeform’s data.

Horses returning from a break longer than 180 days are 0 from 15 in the last five renewals, though several placed. Monitor market moves for Masoun, Lord Church and others off layoffs.

Course form and previous wins at 8f+ have been key trends, with 7 of the last 10 winners already proven over at least a mile.



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Conclusion

Artful Approach sets the standard and looks primed to go one better after his Leopardstown return, with strong Timeform backing and an upwardly mobile profile. Masoun and Lord Church are respected on debut for powerful yards, but lack recent match fitness, so any market confidence would be a big pointer. Fort Vega and Merisi Diamond are solid alternatives, with Usuario Amigo offering outsider value if ready first time up.