Indigo Dream can get her turn in deep Curragh handicap

The 6.10 at the Curragh, the Schweppes Trophy Handicap over 7f, is a typically competitive big-field contest, but it has a clear shape. There is enough pace drawn across the field to make this a proper test, and that could bring the stronger finishers into play if they get the breaks.

The obvious solid pair are Summer Island and Invincible Will. Summer Island arrives in excellent form, having won over course and distance before running well in defeat over 1m here. He looks dependable, handles good ground and has Oisin Murphy booked. Invincible Will is another major player after a recent C&D win, with his Curragh 7f record now reading very well. A 5lb rise is fair, but he is no secret to the market.

The more interesting betting horse may be Indigo Dream. She remains a maiden on turf, which is a slight concern, but her recent Curragh runs are better than the bare form. She met trouble in running over 6f here and again at Cork, where she travelled strongly before finding traffic. Back at 7f, with Colin Keane booked and a strong pace likely, she has the right set-up to go close if getting a clear passage.

Spacebound is another fascinating runner. He makes his handicap debut after showing promise in maidens, including a good C&D second in March. That form has been boosted since and he could be well treated, although the market may tell us plenty. Little Empire also deserves respect at a bigger price, as he is consistent, suited by 7f on good ground and likely to run his race.

There are reasons to oppose a few near the front of the market. Collecting Coin has ability but may want softer ground, while Smoke Them Out could face pressure up front and is probably better with more cut. Spodo Komodo has potential but returns from a long absence on handicap debut, so he is more of a market-watch horse than a confident selection.

The verdict is that Summer Island is the safest runner, but Indigo Dream has the strongest upside at the prices. At around 7/1 or bigger she makes each-way appeal, especially with five places available. Little Empire would also be interesting if drifting to a double-figure price.

Selection: Indigo Dream each-way
Main danger: Summer Island
Value alternative: Little Empire