The 18:07 at Bellewstown, the Smiths Of Drogheda Ford Classic Handicap over one mile, looks a typically competitive Irish handicap, but Bay Of Dreams makes plenty of appeal as the standout betting proposition.

Ciaran Murphy’s four-year-old arrives here after a strong third at Leopardstown, where she raced prominently and looked the likely winner before being reeled in late. That run suggested she is finding her feet for her new yard, and from stall one she should be able to secure an ideal position around this turning track.

The statistical profile also backs up her chance. Bay Of Dreams has placed in 70% of her handicap runs, 63% going this direction, 62% across her career and 57% on the going. Those are strong numbers in a 15-runner handicap, especially with Ben Coen booked and the yard in good form.

Zipster brings one of the strongest recent RPR profiles and is respected. He has been running consistently at around this level and could benefit from a solid pace to chase. However, at shorter odds, he looks more fairly priced than especially generous.

Comfort Line is another major player. The nine-year-old has been in good heart, winning at Dundalk before finishing second at the Curragh, and the return to a mile should suit. His profile is that of a reliable placer rather than a rapidly improving winner, but he remains a solid each-way contender.

For those seeking a bigger-priced improver, Imnotleavinyou is interesting. As a three-year-old, she has more upside than most of these exposed older handicappers. She won at Limerick recently and, although her last two runs were less convincing, she remains capable of better if this race is run to suit.

Bucaneer’s Spirit also deserves respect after a consistent spell of form, while Darkdeserthighway has positive statistics with Colin Keane aboard but has a wide draw and a turf record that tempers enthusiasm.

Overall, this race looks set up for a horse who can travel handy, handle the track and arrive in form. Bay Of Dreams ticks more boxes than most and looks the most attractive play at the prices.

Selection: Bay Of Dreams
Main danger: Comfort Line
Best each-way value: Imnotleavinyou
Respect: Zipster and Bucaneer’s Spirit