Race Setup:
A small but quality field of six fillies line up for this Group 2, with a weak pace predicted. That raises the likelihood of a steadily run affair, and in such scenarios, positioning and tactical pace are often decisive. No draw bias is flagged, though small fields typically neutralise most stall-related concerns.
—
Contenders and Profiles
LADY IMAN (112p) – Score: 9.5/10
Unbeaten in three starts, she steps up from Group 3 company after winning the Fillies’ Sprint Stakes at Naas, travelling strongly and quickening with authority. She’s versatile regarding pace, having won off both even and slower fractions. Proven at the track, distance, and ground, she rates the standout on Timeform adjusted ratings. She’s also trained by Ger Lyons, who has won this race twice in the past 10 years. Holds a Timeform “p” symbol and tops the in-running price metrics—suggesting dominance.
BEAUTIFY (91p) – Score: 7.5/10
An eye-catching debut at this track when third in a well-contested maiden. Aidan O’Brien has trained three of the last ten winners of this race, and this filly is bred to excel over 7f+, so the 6f trip here may be on the sharp side. Likely to improve with experience but may need more pace to be seen to best effect. Moore retains the ride, indicating stable confidence.
LUNA MIA (88p) – Score: 6.5/10
Ran well on debut when just touched off at Listowel, finishing a close second. That was a small-field affair and she was prominent throughout, so racecraft is less of a concern. She’s open to improvement but lacks the ratings heft of the principals. Trainer M.D. O’Callaghan is in form and her pedigree offers speed and precocity. Slight stamina edge over some rivals could help if the race becomes tactical.
SKYDANCE (80p) – Score: 5/10
Shaped with promise at Cork when third, though beaten over five lengths and looked to want further. Her pedigree suggests 1¼m in time, so this may be a sharp enough test for now. She may struggle to go the early pace here and is likely to need time and distance.
LEBLON QUEEN (82p) – Score: 4/10
Caused a shock on debut at Roscommon at 80/1, showing early dash before hanging on. That was over 7.5f and she now drops in trip, which is a concern. The form is modest and she was not notably strong at the finish. The small field will help, but the drop in distance is a negative.
ARTISTA (85) – Score: 4/10
Well exposed in minor Beverley races, winning one before setting too strong a pace when third. Likely to lead again, which could suit the main closers if she overdoes it. Not bred to be top class and has the lowest Timeform rating here. Not dismissed if allowed a soft lead but this is a big step up in grade.
—
Trends and Insights
Trainer impact: Lyons (LADY IMAN) and O’Brien (BEAUTIFY) both have solid records in this race.
Timeform flags: LADY IMAN, BEAUTIFY, and LUNA MIA all carry the “p” symbol, marking them as likely improvers.
Tactics: Weak pace predicted, and LADY IMAN’s tactical versatility is a big advantage. Hold-up types like BEAUTIFY could be at risk if the gallop is too modest.
—
Private Tissue Estimate (based on form, ratings, trainer trends, and race shape)
LADY IMAN – 4/6
BEAUTIFY – 3/1
LUNA MIA – 8/1
SKYDANCE – 14/1
LEBLON QUEEN – 20/1
ARTISTA – 25/1
—
Summary
This Group 2 has a standout in LADY IMAN, whose winning form, class edge, and tactical adaptability make her the clear one to beat. She’s proven on the track, ground and distance, and holds a strong Timeform figure advantage. BEAUTIFY is a major danger if improving and if the gallop is sufficient to help her settle and stay on. LUNA MIA has each-way potential in bigger fields but may be tactically vulnerable here.
—
Smart Play (Top Bets)
Win Bet: LADY IMAN – Proven, progressive, and best suited to the race dynamics.
Backup Play (Without Favourite / Place Market): BEAUTIFY – Likely improver, classy breeding, and stable intent.
Keep an eye on market moves for debutants on their second start (BEAUTIFY, LUNA MIA) and potential drifts on outsiders like ARTISTA, which could confirm negative intent.
13:45 Curragh, Saturday 28 June 2025Airlie Stud Stakes (Group 2) | 6f | 2yo Fillies | Turf | Good to yielding (in places)
Get updates
From art exploration to the latest archeological findings, all here in our weekly newsletter.
Subscribe
Leave a comment