News and previews: The unbeaten 1,000 Guineas heroine, Attraction, has been given the green light to attempt a double up in the Boylesports Irish 1,000 Guineas.
Attraction cantered for the first time yesterday since scoring at Newmarket six days ago and did enough to persuade trainer Mark Johnston that a classic double could be on the cards in two weeks.
"She will be aimed at the Irish Guineas provided the ground at the Curragh is no softer than good. She is extremely well after her Newmarket win," he said.
At home, Kilbeggan hosts its first Saturday evening fixture where Verchoyles Lad can gain compensation for some terrible Punchestown luck in the handicap chase.
Davy Russell did really well to remain on board the horse when a last-fence mistake handed victory to Howaya Pet at the festival.
Timmy Murphy is on Moss Bawn in the Beginners' Chase and although Michael Hourigan's horse is returning from a lay-off he does boast some reasonable hurdles form.
Killarney's May festival starts tomorrow where Christy Roche can continue his good record in the €60,000 Murphys Handicap Hurdle.
The Curragh trainer won it twice with Grimes (2000-01) and although The Kop End is at the opposite end of the handicap he does represent some progressive form. Third to Macs Joy at Fairyhouse, The Kop End also has placed form behind Arch Stanton and War Of Attrition and looks fairly treated on that.
Risk Accessor carries the McManus colours in the conditions chase but this looks a good chance for Colca Canyon who lost out on a possible Grade One success when falling two out at Punchestown.
