We all know that Willie Mullins is likely to dominate the Dublin Racing Festival once again and his horses monopolise the entries of most of the graded races. The two-day extravaganza kicks off on Saturday and is certainly worth looking forward to. History will tell you he can’t win them all however, so we’ve found three interesting contenders that could prove to be a significant threat to the Mullins battalions. Why not check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Jetara is an improving mare with an impressive pedigree. This six-year-old’s dam is sister to Champion Hurdle-winner Jezki, who also won a Grade 1 over three miles. She looked good in a Grade 3 mares event here when last seen and appears to be getting better with every start. Further progress will absolutely be needed but she shouldn’t be ruled out and the step up in trip is likely to suit.
Jalon D’oudairies has made a big impression so far and would appear to be Gordon Elliott’s top bumper horse this season. Interestingly this is one race without a Willie Mullins trained favourite and his big rival can take full advantage. John & Thomas Kiely’s A Dream To Share heads the market and understandably so but his well documented injury issues mean that he concedes a fitness advantage to Elliott’s promising gelding, who appears to have a huge engine.
Slade Steel is a smart prospect for Henry de Bromhead and he managed to get the better of a Willie Mullins runner in Grade 2 company last time out. There won’t be many smarter novices in Henry’s yard at the moment and he remains unbeaten in two starts over hurdles. Ballyburn heads the market but he is worth taking on upon dropping back to two miles and Slade Steel could be the best of the rest.
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