A typically competitive big-field handicap at Naas, with 16 declared and a pace forecast described as very strong. With the likelihood of the leaders going hard early, there is a strong possibility that horses able to settle and finish off well will be at an advantage. Notably, several of the past winners of this race, including Laugh A Minute (2024) and Blairmayne (twice in 2022 and 2023), were seasoned campaigners with stamina for 6f and ability to cope with easier underfoot conditions.


—

Strongest Contenders

LOVE BILLY BOY (TFR 110)
Shane Foley’s mount has shaped better than the bare result on both starts since joining Gillian O’Leary. Second to Laugh A Minute two runs ago at the Curragh (having met trouble) and again caught the eye at Naas last time when denied a clear run. His ability to travel strongly off a solid pace looks a major asset today, and he is weighted to confirm form with several of these rivals. He holds a Timeform Horse In Focus flag, suggesting further progress is expected. The set-up looks ideal, and a bold showing is anticipated.

NOBLE NATION (TFR 109p)
Progressive since entering handicaps, winning at Sligo and then impressively scoring at Naas on reappearance despite being slowly away. His adjusted rating suggests he remains ahead of the handicapper, but there is a small question over tactics: having made the running at Naas last time, he may be vulnerable in a race where strong early fractions could punish those close to the pace. Nevertheless, he rates a major player if ridden a little more conservatively.


—

Main Dangers

LAUGH A MINUTE (TFR 105+)
The 2024 winner of this race, and recently back to form when edging out Love Billy Boy at the Curragh. While he is now a 10-year-old, he retains the ability to travel strongly and pounce late, tactics that could be well suited to today’s scenario. His Individual Price Hint notes he won when unfancied at bigger odds last time, so he should not be underestimated despite his advancing years.

COLLECTIVE POWER (TFR 106)
In-form after a Dundalk win, he tends to be ridden patiently, which could suit with today’s projected strong pace. His adjusted rating fits among the contenders, and he handles cut in the ground well. If getting a clear passage, he could be one to pick up the pieces late on.


—

Interesting Outsiders

REAL FORCE (TFR 108)
Off for 12 months prior to a highly respectable return fifth behind Two Stars at the Curragh, where he finished off his race strongly despite meeting interference. The Timeform Specific Pace Hint identifies him as one that will be helped by today’s very strong pace. Given his high adjusted rating and liking for soft conditions, he appeals as a value option. However, coming off a break, the advice is to monitor the market for signs of weakness or support.

TAI TAM BAY (TFR 107)
Returned with a solid third in a Curragh handicap last month. Although he has winning form over further, his stamina could be an asset if the race becomes a test. He’s a consistent type who could sneak into the frame at a double-figure price.


—

Trainers to Note

Stephen Thorne (trainer of Laugh A Minute) — won this race in 2024.

Gillian O’Leary (Love Billy Boy and Noble Nation) — looks to hold a particularly strong hand with two leading players.

Past winners show a trend towards seasoned handicappers, often aged 4 or older, with proven form in big fields and an ability to handle cut underfoot.



—

Final Thoughts

With a large field, likely pace collapse, and yielding-to-soft ground, the race sets up ideally for a strong closer.
Love Billy Boy is the most appealing option, offering strong recent form, positive flags, and the ideal running style. Noble Nation and Laugh A Minute are very solid alternatives, while Real Force looks the best value outsider, particularly if market support arrives.

Market Watch Advice: Horses such as Real Force, The Highway Rat, and Little Queenie are returning from absences and should be monitored for late drifts or strength.