THE IRISH INSIDER

Downpatrick was abandoned yesterday, and while it remains uncertain whether racing will proceed there today, attention turns to Gowran Park, where I have two selections worth following.

16:10 GOWRAN PARK

We begin with the apprentice handicap, where Woodshaw Whisper, carrying top weight, looks the one to beat. Now in the care of Ger Lyons following a stable switch over the winter, he made a winning return this season, beating a subsequent Aidan O’Brien-trained winner in the process. A mark of 82 appears generous based on that effort. His main threat may come from Nepal, who ran a solid race last time out. The form of that contest has substance, and he should be right in the thick of it once more.

WOODSHAW WHISPER (WIN)

17:10 GOWRAN PARK

We head to the ‘lucky last’, where we turn to Coeur d’Or, a familiar name in big-field handicaps who now drops into calmer waters. He showed he retains ability with a credible fourth on his latest outing. Cristal Clere and Eastwatch both contested listed company last time, with Cristal Clere in particular expected to uphold that form and pose the biggest threat. Viking Invasion represents last year’s winning stable-and-jockey combination, but may have a little bit to find in order to land this.

COEUR D'OR (WIN)

written by Toby Darby