Finally a winner for us yesterday at Galway 2026, in the shape of Sindagan in the 7f Maiden. Let’s hope the luck continues to today.
5:05 Tote Guaranteed 50K Placepot Maiden Hurdle
Al Boum Photo’s half-sister Al Arrivee, makes plenty of appeal on her first start over hurdles and the longer trip looks likely to suit. Twice a bumper winner, she also finished second to the highly regarded Murat at last season’s festival. While this is her jumping debut, she represents a yard renowned for preparing newcomers well and arrives in excellent condition.
Her stable companion Mr Hollywood boasts high-class Flat credentials, having been runner-up in the 2023 German Derby before taking his chance in that year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Although his stable debut in May was fairly low-key, he bounced back with a solid third in the Queen Alexandra Stakes at Royal Ascot and should appreciate this greater test of stamina.
Shoda, a dual winner on the Flat, has yet to make the expected impact over hurdles, while Jeroboam Machin continues to search for his best form. Connections have reached for both cheekpieces and a tongue-tie in an effort to spark improvement; you can’t rule anything out from that stable, though.
6:40 Tote Galway Plate (Gr3)
At the time of writing, I am still awaiting Jalila Moriviere to become a definite runner; she’s still currently first reserve. It’s happened before with Carlingford Lough back in 2013. I’m hoping lightening strikes the same place twice! If she runs, I’m backing her alone. I have been waiting for her in a race like this for a very long time. Today we pray to the reserve Gods, for her to get in. If she doesn’t get a run, I would be with Conyers Hill and Three Card Brag, at the prices.
Conyers Hill: Winning is not a habit for this gelding, with just one victory to his name in the past three seasons and a modest 1-12 strike-rate over fences. He is, however, the type to travel strongly for a long way and is unlikely to come under serious pressure until the field begins to descend towards the final two fences. Whether he finds enough off the bridle to get his head in front is another question, but the frenetic nature of the Galway Plate should play to his strengths. Alan O’Sullivan’s valuable 5lb claim, only enhances his appeal, and while this marathon test may push the limits of his stamina, odds of 25-1 make him a very tempting each-way proposition.
Three Card Brag: Has the form in top class handicaps. Lost all chance of wining this race last year at the start. After that ,he finished second in the Kerry National. Then, he went on to win at Cheltenham in October and finished second to Panic Attack in the Coral Gold Cup. The worry would be can he run at a relentless pace, as this will be. However, with the big race form under his belt and Kevin Healy taking off 7lbs, it’s worth a gamble.
By Cathryn Fry
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