Naas Race Analysis (12/10/2025)
Race 1: 13:25 Naas (6f Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Joshs Joy (IRE) | 274.648 |
| 2. Institute (IRE) | 254.8476 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Joshs Joy (IRE) (2yo): This consistent type was beaten only a head by the favourite Smexy over 7f at Leopardstown last month. She had been favourite for a 1m maiden in July but was comprehensively beaten. Her latest outing at Cork (7f, soft) resulted in a below-par performance where she was reported to have hung left under pressure. She should still go close here.
- Institute (IRE) (2yo): This Frankel filly took a keen hold and appeared green on her debut at Dundalk last month over 7f. She is expected to improve and looks like the preferred entry from A P O’Brien’s stable.
Spotlight Verdict
A beaten favourite on two of her three starts, Josh’s Joy has her chance again, but perhaps recent AW debutante INSTITUTE can challenge her if she has learned from her opening experience. The market can sort the six having their first run, but perhaps the selection’s stablemate Purely can prove the best of them.
Race Statistics
The race is a 2yo Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden over 6f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups: All runners are 2yo.
- Fate of Favourites: Historical results show mixed fortunes: 0160103111.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): A P O’Brien 4-1-14, M D O’Callaghan 2-0-4, J P Murtagh 0-3-5.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Joshs Joy (IRE):
- Strengths: Possesses the highest rating and has demonstrated competitive form, particularly in the run where she was only beaten a head at Leopardstown.
- Weaknesses: Has been prone to hanging left under pressure and has disappointed as favourite previously.
- Suitability: Proven competitive at 7f; if she handles the drop to 6f on yielding ground, she is a strong contender.
- Institute (IRE):
- Strengths: Represents a top stable (A P O’Brien) and is expected to show significant improvement after her debut.
- Weaknesses: Ran keenly and green on her only previous start.
- Suitability: Should benefit from experience and possesses high potential.
Race 2: 14:00 Naas (6f Tifrums Irish EBF (C & G) Maiden)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Savile Row (IRE) | 299.2712 |
| 2. Strike Zone (IRE) | 290.8728 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Savile Row (IRE) (2yo): Has run consistently well across his three opening maiden races. His best effort here was a second place (6f, yielding to soft). His last run saw him make a slow start before fading to finish fourth. He should be among the contenders. RPR master rating is 86.
- Strike Zone (IRE) (2yo): Showed good form in his first two maidens. He improved from his encouraging debut third at Navan (5f, yielding) to finish second at Cork last month (6f, yielding to soft), pulling clear of the remaining field. This suggests he has a good chance. RPR master rating is 85.
Spotlight Verdict
Pulling clear of the remainder in a Cork maiden last time, STRIKE ZONE may be ready to pounce now. Savile Row has been running consistently and can make his presence felt. Chicago Pope is another who can get involved.
Race Statistics
The race is a 2yo Tifrums Irish EBF (C & G) Maiden over 6f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups: All runners are 2yo.
- Fate of Favourites: Historical success is mixed: 4161223331.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): A P O’Brien 4-3-12, G M Lyons 1-2-7, J P Murtagh 0-1-4, M D O’Callaghan 0-3-5.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Savile Row (IRE):
- Strengths: Highest rated by TimeWise. Has proven C&D form (second place).
- Weaknesses: Has displayed slow starts. Yet to secure a win (0-3).
- Suitability: Handles the 6f distance and yielding/soft ground.
- Strike Zone (IRE):
- Strengths: Strong progressive form, separating himself from the rest of the field in his last run. Selected as the likely winner by the Spotlight analyst.
- Weaknesses: Slight margin below Savile Row on TimeWise rating.
- Suitability: Appears highly suited to the conditions and distance.
Race 3: 14:35 Naas (7f Irish EBF Auction Series Race Final)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Listentodwindblow (IRE) | 332.2891 |
| 2. Madbadanddangerous (IRE) | 321.0475 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Listentodwindblow (IRE) (2yo): Won his third maiden start at Tipperary (7.5f, yielding) by keeping on well, relegating his stablemate Madbadanddangerous to second place. He recently posted another strong effort, finishing second by 0.5l over 1m on heavy ground at Listowel. His official rating marks him out as the one to beat. RPR master rating 95.
- Madbadanddangerous (IRE) (2yo): Made a good debut, finishing second narrowly behind Redemption Road. He subsequently secured a win over C&D on yielding to soft ground, demonstrating a strong finish. Although he should be involved, he is likely to appreciate longer trips in the future. RPR master rating 92.
Spotlight Verdict
Joseph O’Brien runs four, and the pick of them on jockey bookings appears to be debut third GREEN CITATION. He ran green that day and with that run under his belt can show an improved performance here. Redemption Road has the edge over Madbadanddangerous based on their Tipperary meeting, yet the latter is a C&D winner following his battling success last time. Alphecca is interesting but the drying ground and drop back in trip may not suit.
Race Statistics
The race is a 2yo Irish EBF Auction Series Race Final over 7f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups: All runners are 2yo.
- Fate of Favourites: Mixed results historically: 4510542312.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): Mrs John Harrington 2-2-11, Noel Meade 1-1-12, Joseph G Murphy 0-1-2, Joseph Patrick O’Brien 0-3-14.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Listentodwindblow (IRE):
- Strengths: Highest TimeWise rating and regarded by Racing Post Rating as the horse to beat. Has proven form over similar distances and ground types.
- Weaknesses: Has already had several competitive runs, testing his current form level.
- Suitability: Proven to handle yielding ground and extended 7f distance.
- Madbadanddangerous (IRE):
- Strengths: C&D winner. Consistent performer, particularly on debut.
- Weaknesses: Previously beaten by the top-rated rival and arguably prefers longer distances.
- Suitability: Proven C&D winner on yielding to soft ground.
Race 4: 15:10 Naas (1m Irish Stallion Farms EBF Garnet Stakes (Fillies & Mares Listed))
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Swelter | 347.7178 |
| 2. Abloom | 339.9236 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Swelter (3yo): A lightly raced filly who won the Group 3 Priory Belle Stakes in March. Her subsequent run in the Irish 1,000 Guineas was poor, attributed to her being too keen and working up beforehand. She returns here from a break of nearly five months and is known to run well fresh. She has a 7lb penalty. RPR master rating 114.
- Abloom (3yo): This progressive filly has secured wins in her last two starts over this 1m distance, including making all in an Ascot fillies handicap (good-to-soft) last month. Although rated below the market leader, she represents a highly respected yard (W Haggas). RPR master rating 103.
Spotlight Verdict
The sole Group winner in the field SWELTER can get back on track on her first run since a disappointing Irish 1,000 Guineas run. That Group win has worked out well and she goes well fresh. Fiery Lucy and Duckadilly hold strong place claims, while the improving handicappers Abloom and Pink Oxalis merit respect.
Race Statistics
The race is a 3yo+ Irish Stallion Farms EBF Garnet Stakes (Listed) over 1m on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups (W-PL-R): 3yo 8-15-94, 4yo+ 2-4-47.
- Fate of Favourites: Mixed historical results: 3214003132.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): A P O’Brien 2-1-20, D K Weld 1-2-8, William Haggas 0-1-1. Joseph Patrick O’Brien has 0 wins from 18 runs but 5 places.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Swelter:
- Strengths: Holds the highest TimeWise rating and is the only Group winner in the lineup. Runs well when fresh.
- Weaknesses: Must overcome a 7lb penalty. Her poor Group 1 performance raises questions.
- Suitability: Distance and ground are suitable for her best form.
- Abloom:
- Strengths: Highly progressive and enters the race in winning form (two consecutive wins). Represents a yard known for success.
- Weaknesses: Needs a significant jump in quality to challenge the high-class listed rivals.
- Suitability: Proven at the 1m distance.
Race 5: 15:45 Naas (1m4f Irish Stallion Farms EBF Bluebell Stakes (Fillies & Mares Listed))
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Island Hopping (IRE) | 381.4077 |
| 2. Royal Entry (IRE) | 349.8511 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Island Hopping (IRE) (3yo): Her best form is at this trip, highlighted by finishing third in the Irish Oaks and second in the Give Thanks Stakes at Cork. She failed to stay 1m6f in her last outing at Longchamp. She is identified as a leading player. RPR master rating 115.
- Royal Entry (IRE) (4yo): Won a Cork maiden over 1m4f in May. Her top performance was winning a 1m2f Down Royal fillies’ handicap. She has since performed creditably in Group company, making her interesting back in Listed class. RPR master rating 107.
Spotlight Verdict
Irish Oaks third Island Hopping remains in search of a stakes win and should appreciate the return to this trip, but may have to give best to the still unexposed IT’S A HEARTBEAT, whose trainer has been patient with the filly since her handicap win in August, which has been franked since. Bonnie Moon had several of these behind her when second at Galway recently and could go well.
Race Statistics
The race is a 3yo+ Irish Stallion Farms EBF Bluebell Stakes (Listed) over 1m4f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups (W-PL-R): 3yo 4-15-79, 4yo+ 6-5-55.
- Fate of Favourites: Mixed success: 2642013121.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): A P O’Brien 1-1-19, Joseph Patrick O’Brien 1-4-16, Mrs John Harrington 1-3-16, Noel Meade 1-0-1, D K Weld 0-4-10, J P Murtagh 0-1-6.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Island Hopping (IRE):
- Strengths: Holds the highest TimeWise rating. Proven ability at Group 1 level (Irish Oaks third) and best form is at this 1m4f trip.
- Weaknesses: Has not yet secured a stakes win.
- Suitability: Distance is ideal; she is regarded as a leading contender.
- Royal Entry (IRE):
- Strengths: Proven winner at this distance and has performed respectably against Group company.
- Weaknesses: Significantly lower TimeWise rating than the top selection.
- Suitability: Suitable distance and class, making her an interesting prospect.
Race 6: 16:20 Naas (2m Colm White Bookmaker Beggars End Handicap)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Light As Air (IRE) | 348.3972 |
| 2. Lord Erskine (IRE) | 332.8293 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Light As Air (IRE) (3yo): Won a Curragh maiden (1m4f). She was defeated by only a head in the Petingo at Leopardstown last time (1m5f, good to yielding). She has been raised 2lb. Her best form relies on nice, dry ground, which is in her favour if the forecast holds. The new 2m trip may also benefit her. RPR master rating 107.
- Lord Erskine (IRE) (12yo): This admirable veteran is currently performing extremely well, having achieved his eighth Flat win in July. He closed strongly for a valiant fourth place in the Irish Cesarewitch last time (2m1f, yielding). He is raised only 2lb, but soft ground is noted as important to him. RPR master rating 103.
Spotlight Verdict
A chance is taken on the Petingo sixth, LORD CHURCH, who may benefit from this step up in trip as well as the added tongue-tie. Light As Air was just touched off in that race and has obvious claims. Admirable veteran Lord Erskine fared best of these in the Cesarewitch and should be thereabouts again. Comfort Zone is last year’s winner. Sorrentino looks the best of the Mullins’ pair and Jetara is also worth considering.
Race Statistics
The race is a 3yo+ Handicap over 2m on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups (W-PL-R): 3yo 0-3-13, 4yo+ 10-27-175.
- Fate of Favourites: Poor historical performance: 0501000441.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): Joseph Patrick O’Brien 2-2-12, D K Weld 1-2-9, W P Mullins 0-6-31. A J Martin has 2 wins from 15 runs.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Light As Air (IRE):
- Strengths: High TimeWise rating. Recently beaten narrowly in a major handicap and is expected to thrive on nicer/drying ground and the 2m distance.
- Weaknesses: Has a disadvantageous draw.
- Suitability: Excellent claims if the ground continues to dry out.
- Lord Erskine (IRE):
- Strengths: Consistent veteran form (in the form of his life) and placed well in the Irish Cesarewitch. Minimal weight rise.
- Weaknesses: Needs soft ground for his best performance, which might not be met on yielding ground.
- Suitability: Proven stayer; performance depends heavily on the weather.
Race 7: 16:55 Naas (1m2½f TRM Calphormin – Strong Foundation, Strong Future Apprentice Handicap)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Positive Energy (IRE) | 250.9693 |
| 2. Calzaghi (IRE) | 237.5276 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Positive Energy (IRE) (4yo): Last season’s 1m2f Navan handicap winner. Her latest Flat run saw her chase home a clear winner at Gowran over a slightly shorter trip. She handles an ease in the ground. RPR master rating 77.
- Calzaghi (IRE) (5yo): Won over this distance at Navan last year and ran third at the Curragh subsequently. His comeback run last month resulted in a good third place at Down Royal (on quick ground). He is considered a definite player. RPR master rating 73.
Spotlight Verdict
Plenty with chances, including top-weight Calzaghi, along with the expensive-to-follow Positive Energy and the James Barrett-trained pair Not Simple and Timandi. However, EDERGOLE’S ANGEL won with a bit in hand at Bellewstown and with form over longer trips could defy an 8lb rise.
Race Statistics
The race is a 3yo+ Apprentice Handicap over 1m2½f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups (W-PL-R): 3yo 2-5-29, 4yo+ 5-12-66.
- Fate of Favourites: Low historical success: 2005231.
- Trainer Records (W-PL-R): Andrew McNamara 0-1-2, John C McConnell 0-1-6, Kevin Thomas Coleman 0-1-1, R Donohoe 0-1-1.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Positive Energy (IRE):
- Strengths: Highest rated by TimeWise. Proven winner at the distance and likes soft conditions.
- Weaknesses: Has often been a beaten favourite.
- Suitability: The yielding ground should suit her preference for an ease.
- Calzaghi (IRE):
- Strengths: Proven winner over this distance. Showed recent encouraging form despite quick ground.
- Weaknesses: TimeWise rating is lower than Positive Energy.
- Suitability: Definitely a player over this trip.
Race 8: 17:30 Naas (1m2½f Flat Finale At Naas Fillies Handicap)
| Horse Name | TimeWise Master Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. Ob La Di (IRE) | 285.1899 |
| 2. So Golden | 267.6431 |
Recent Form and Comments
- Ob La Di (IRE) (4yo): Returned to form with a C&D win in August, successfully making virtually all under a heavy weight. She is 5lb higher here but still warrants respect. Drying ground is noted as being suitable for her. RPR master rating 89.
- So Golden (4yo): Recently secured a breakthrough win. RPR master rating 91.
Spotlight Verdict
KASHEL SPRING may be able to make it three wins in a row, having needed every yard to wear down a rival in a Punchestown fillies handicap. Its All Peachy and Presence look set for strong performances.
Race Statistics
The race is a 3yo+ Fillies Handicap over 1m2½f on Yielding ground.
- Age Groups: No explicit overall age group or trainer statistics provided in the sources.
- Fate of Favourites: No explicit statistics provided.
- Trainer Records: No explicit statistics provided.
Assessment of Top Two Chances
- Ob La Di (IRE):
- Strengths: Proven C&D winner. Warrants plenty of respect despite the 5lb rise and prefers drying ground.
- Weaknesses: Running off a career-high handicap mark.
- Suitability: Proven winner over this course and distance.
- So Golden:
- Strengths: Recent winner with a high RPR master rating (91).
- Weaknesses: Specific form details are sparse in the sources.
- Suitability: Based on rating, she should be highly competitive at this level.
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