Thundering On, trained by Joseph O’Brien, is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming Group 2 contest at the Curragh, marking a potential return to form following recent setbacks. The three-year-old filly had previously shown exceptional promise by capturing the Oaks at Epsom in June. However, subsequent performances, including a fourth-place finish in the Pretty Polly Stakes, were hampered by a coughing issue. After a period of recovery, Thundering On is expected to be in prime condition for this event, where she will be ridden by Ryan Moore.
Another notable contender in the Curragh lineup is Sun Goddess, an Aidan O’Brien-trained juvenile who has rapidly established herself as a top two-year-old. Sun Goddess recently finished a narrow second in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot before securing victory in a Group 2 race at the same venue the following week. Her credentials were further enhanced with a Group 1 win in the Phoenix Stakes, also at the Curragh, before an impressive performance in a lower-class race at York. With Ryan Moore set to ride, Sun Goddess is considered a strong favourite for the Group 1 Moyglare Stakes, and investors may find any available odds worthwhile to consider.
Moore also partners Scandinavia in the Irish St. Leger, but bettors might look elsewhere for potential value. Trustyourinstinct, a six-year-old trained by Joseph O’Brien, posed a significant challenge to the leading contenders during his recent victory in the Curragh Cup. Displaying a sharp turn of pace, Trustyourinstinct appears to have the speed to unsettle runners such as Scandinavia and Jan Brueghel, both of whom are highly rated in the race.
Meanwhile, across the Irish Sea at Doncaster, the final day of the St Leger Festival offers an intriguing card. Wechaad, victorious in a nursery race at this meeting last year, continues to show promise in competitive handicaps. Under the guidance of trainer Roger Varian, the colt may benefit from a return to seven furlongs, with jockey Ray Dawson resuming his seat.
Another participant, Say What You See, has been demonstrating consistent form under trainer Liam Bailey. The horse has won at Pontefract and York this season and recently finished a strong third at York’s Knavesmire course. The step up in trip could keep Say What You See on an upward trajectory.
Forty Years On, a filly in impressive condition with recent high-quality handicap wins, is regarded as ready to compete at Group 3 level. Her trainer, George Scott, anticipates further improvement with the prospect of rain expected to enhance her performance.
At Bath, Spirited Dancer emerges as an interesting prospect. Now under the care of trainer Tony Carroll and dropping in trip, the course-winning horse has attracted attention ahead of a 5:00 p.m. race.
Overall, the coming weekend’s races across Ireland and Britain feature a mix of established talents and emerging challengers, with key jockeys and trainers playing pivotal roles in shaping the outcomes.
