RACING:TONIGHT'S DIAMOND Stakes has a Group One history and while Zanughan may not be in that class he could still be good enough to secure Dundalk's Group Three feature.
A total of 10 line up, aiming to follow in the footsteps of the two previous winners, Mastercraftsman (2009) and Gitano Hernando. They include Jessica Harrington’s Melbourne Cup entry Bob Le Beau and a pair of runners each from Aidan O’Brien and John Oxx’s yards.
Dubawi Star is a 105-rated course winner but the first choice of the Oxx team looks to be Zanughan who significantly drops back in trip from the mile and a half over which he won a Listed event at Galway last time.
The Aga Khan’s colt looked to need every inch of that Ballybrit trip but Oxx still drops him back a furlong and a half and since he is having just the fifth start of his career improvement can be expected from Zanughan.
The Oxx, Aga Khan, Johnny Murtagh team could also be on the mark in the preceding handicap with Dawariya who was far from disgraced when chasing home Rock And Roll Kid at Leopardstown on her last start.
Jessie Jane ran an encouraging debut at the Curragh behind Was and is sure to be fancied for the mile fillies maiden. However, Aidan O’Brien runs the Galileo newcomer Wonderful in this and the champion trainer should know what is required to win.
Ground conditions look set to be quick at Gowran and Mouse Morris has elected not to run his top-class prospect First Lieutenant in the Beginners Chase. In his absence Jakros can score for Noel Meade while Some Present can take the conditions hurdle.
