This well-contested 1m1f handicap looks set to be run at a strong gallop, which may disadvantage pace-forcers and benefit those ridden off the speed with a clear run. While no distinct draw bias is recorded, a low to middle draw has historically been preferable over this trip at Leopardstown.


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Strongest Contenders:

INSTANT APPEAL [94] – Lightly raced and shaped better on second run back at Naas, finishing a staying-on third over 1m. Worth another go over this longer trip. Races just off the pace. Trained by Jessica Harrington, who does well in this bracket.

ARTFUL APPROACH [93] – Good second to Dark Viper here in March, and a return to this course looks a plus after not enjoying heavy ground at Limerick. Trainer Stephen Thorne has a 22% strike rate at this trip range. Course form notable.

KILLEANEY BEAR [89] – Multiple 2024 wins including here, and comes off a solid second at Naas. Can race prominently without needing to lead, which suits the pace shape. Solid type for these conditions.

ARD NA MARA [92] – A front-runner whose best form includes a Leopardstown second in April. Will need to control his effort early given the strong predicted pace. Drawn well to bag a handy spot.

LETIZA [91] – First run since November but holds consistent AW form from Dundalk. Often slowly away and races off the pace – will need luck in running. Has changed stables (was with Thomas Dowling). Market support could be significant.


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Main Dangers & Interesting Outsiders:

MOLTO AMICHI [92] – Narrow second at Ballinrobe in May and slowly away when well beaten at the Curragh last time. Capable on a going day and stays this trip, but no margin for error if tardy at the break.

BEAR PROFIT [89] – Slow away latest, better judged on reappearance second behind Leinster at the Curragh. Capable but risky profile when not breaking on terms.

THATWILLDOSO [91] – Poor latest effort but had shaped well before that. Needs a revival but trip and ground suit. Kevin Coleman remains out of form, which tempers enthusiasm.

PINK SOCKS [87] – Off 227 days but has run well fresh in the past. Usually held up and will need gaps to open. Profile suggests potential to outrun odds in a race that could fall apart late.

CHAVAJOD [88] – Often races on or near the lead, so the expected pace may compromise him. Has won off similar marks, though stable’s single-runner profit stat is worth noting.


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Hold-Up Horses Needing Luck in Running:

LETIZA, PINK SOCKS, MAPA, and DANCING STEVE are all typically ridden quietly and may require gaps to appear in a large field late on.

NEDITA also races off the pace and has a history of hitting traffic in races.



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Trainer Note:

No previous winning trainers from the last four renewals declared in this field.

Market check advised on LETIZA and DREAM ESCAPE – both off 195 and 270 days respectively. A positive move would suggest readiness.



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Ratings out of 10:

Horse Rating

INSTANT APPEAL 8.5
ARTFUL APPROACH 8.5
KILLEANEY BEAR 8
ARD NA MARA 7.5
LETIZA 7.5
MOLTO AMICHI 7.5
BEAR PROFIT 7
THATWILLDOSO 6.5
PINK SOCKS 6.5
CHAVAJOD 6
DANCING STEVE 6
SOLOMON 5.5
DREAM ESCAPE 5.5
MAPA 5
EASTERN WIND 5
PIER PRESSURE 5
NEDITA 5
ARCH ENEMY 5



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Each-Way Angles (18 runners):

LETIZA – Unexposed at this trip, good previous efforts on the AW, and switch to turf with jockey Billy Lee up.

PINK SOCKS – Returns from a break but was in good form last autumn and goes well fresh.

KILLEANEY BEAR – Solid and versatile, likely to be in the mix if settling.



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Private Tissue Estimate:

Instant Appeal – 11/2

Artful Approach – 6/1

Killeaney Bear – 7/1

Ard Na Mara – 8/1

Letiza – 10/1

Bear Profit – 12/1

Molto Amichi – 12/1

Thatwilldoso – 14/1

Pink Socks – 14/1

Others 16/1 bar



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Summary:

A strong pace and good ground set the scene for a test that should suit Instant Appeal, who shaped well last time and is still on the upgrade. Artful Approach boasts strong course form and appeals as a major threat, while Killeaney Bear is a reliable type likely to be involved. Letiza and Pink Socks rate live each-way contenders if gaps appear, while Ard Na Mara will need to settle better up front. Market activity—particularly on returning runners—should guide late plays.