📍 Dundalk Stadium
This is a straightforward 0–70 five–furlong sprint. No frills. No hiding places. At this level it usually comes down to one question: who can run to a number the others simply can’t reach?
The Class Angle
Sporting Hero stands out on raw ability. He won this race last year off a higher mark and now runs from 70. In a weak sprint, that matters. His peak figures are comfortably above most of these. The concern is his latest run, which was flat. If that was just a blip, he is well treated. If it wasn’t, he’s vulnerable under top weight.
Bold Optimist has the strongest average speed profile in the field. That’s not based on one spike — it’s sustained performance. The issue is fitness after 189 days off. If ready, he’s a major player. If short of a run, five furlongs will expose him late.
The Progressive Angle
Subiaco won over course and distance three weeks ago. He’s lightly raced and open to improvement, but his overall figures are still short of what the principals have achieved in the past. He doesn’t need to improve much more to be competitive — but he does need to improve.
Hasiyna brings current form. She’s been placed in her last two and arrives race–fit. The question is whether she has the change of gear to win if the tempo lifts. She looks more reliable than explosive.
Inishmot Prince drops back from six furlongs after winning. That can sharpen a horse up, but it can also catch them out in a sharp five. He’s interesting rather than convincing.
Pace and Shape
There’s enough early speed to ensure an honest gallop. If they go hard, it sets up for something sitting just off the pace. If it turns tactical, the better handicapped class horses gain the edge.
Verdict
This looks like a race where past ability may trump recent consistency.
If Sporting Hero is ready to bounce back, he’s the one to beat off his current mark.
Bold Optimist is the danger if fit.
Hasiyna appeals for the places.
In low-grade sprints, you often don’t need improvement — you just need one horse to remember how good it used to be.