JOHN OXX'S horses, like everyone else's, have had to endure the mysterious bug that has affected many of the Curragh stables. But, compared to some, they have continued to run as close to their form as can be reasonably expected.
Oxx admitted only half jokingly earlier this week that the only criteria he is using at the moment for running a horse is whether it has a dirty nose or not. Still, the policy seems to be working, and in the circumstances it's encouraging to see two of his, Sarpader and Ornate, in at Dundalk this evening with what look to be winning chances.
Sarpader takes part in a not particularly distinguished looking Louth Vintners Maiden, and if this Doyoun colt makes only normal improvement from his debut he will be difficult to beat.
That debut came at Killarney 13 days ago when he showed with every chance two furlongs out, only to be run out of it by the decent hurdler Dromineer close home. It was an encouraging eight lengths back to Granuale in third, and the sticky ground that day was hardly ideal for such an inexperienced animal.
Sarpader should have come for that and he is preferred to Vintage Escape, disqualified from first in a Gowran maiden last year and fifth of six to the smart Dangerous Diva at the Curragh last month.
Ornate is marginally preferred in the Baileys Maiden Race, although if the first reserve for this race, Poker School, manages to get in he would be the choice. If he doesn't, Ornate showed just about enough when fifth to Bint Alsarab and Poker School at Killarney to suggest he may have the measure of Puzzled Airs. Significantly, the sixth in that Killarney race, and Ornate's stable companion, Glasshouse, won well at Naas last Sunday.
Punters can get off to the perfect start with Forest Princess in the opening maiden hurdle. Frank Ennis' mare hadn't run for six months before she came here at the start of this month to finish third to Bailenagun over tonight's course and distance.
Charlie Swan rode her on that occasion and it looks a plus point for her chances that the champion has elected to ride her again.
Pat Flynn's horses have hit a rich vein of form recently, and Kephren can continue the good work when he makes the long journey from Carrick-On-Suir for the Finches Handicap.
Kephren has picked up a 5lb penalty for winning at Downpatrick last weekend, but he showed the benefit of being stepped up in distance by absolutely waltzing home under Pat Gilson. The handicapper may not have his measure just yet and Kephren can edge out the Killarney claimer winner Ballylennon Mist.
Liam Fleming can hardly be looking forward too much to riding Young Wolf in the Harp Handicap Chase. The nine-year-old has the nasty habit of putting in at least one howlingly bad jump in most of his races, yet fortunately usually manages to stay on his feet.
But if Young Wolf manages to be even just adequate this evening he looks to have his chance. On Sligo running he is held by Wallys Run, but that one was ideally suited by the very heavy ground then, and after that a bad mistake at Killarney ruined Young Wolf's chance behind Young Dubliner. Backing Young Wolf means taking a chance on his jumping, but he could be a bit of value.
Tony Coyle and Paddy Mullins can continue their good bumper run with Strong Choice, white Ardlea House, a dual course winner last season, can go in again in the Smirnoff Handicap.
. This weekend at the Curragh sees the launch of Irish Flat Racing Records, a comprehensive record of results in this country from 1950-1996.
The book serves a valuable function by highlighting the high standards set by some of the greatest owners, trainers and jockeys in the history of the sport worldwide as well as many outstanding thoroughbreds.
It is certainly a must for the many studs and stables in this country who can view it as a vital reference book.
The book retails at £5 and can be bought from the binocular caravan. However, for those who cannot make it to the racetrack, the book is available from Bob Kelly, 13 Sarsfield Pak, Lucan, Co Dublin, for £6, including postage and packaging.
