Construct seen here winning over hurdles at Sligo under Donie McInerney© Photo Healy Racing
Construct is set to face nine opponents as he bids for a cross-code hat-trick in the feature ‘Bellewstown Bowl’ Handicap on day one of the track’s August Festival.
Already successful three times this summer, John McConnell’s four-year-old has won his last two over hurdles.
Back to the Flat on today, he will be ridden by Ross Coakley and should give a good account of himself in a competitive contest.
Recent winners Edification Drakensberg and Royal Aide also all look to have strong claims — while the consistent Lusis Naturea is another for the short-list.
Royal Aide’s trainer Joseph O’Brien is sending a strong team to the County Meath venue.
He saddles Potala Palace Cursu Mina and Franklin Street in the Foran Equine Irish EBF Auction Maiden — with the former, rated 83, appearing the one to beat over this extended seven furlongs. Liquor Scholar Phase After Phase, Royal Bungle and Total Euphoria are the O’Brien representatives in the Phil Kierans Memorial Maiden.
The trainer’s brother Donnacha O’Brien has opted to ride Phase After Phase, who is tried in cheek-pieces for the first time.
The second division of the P&M Green Energy Cottages Handicap sees the clash of Killarney victors High Altitude and Cautious Approach
John Murphy ’s High Altitude won twice in four days at the County Kerry circuit — and back again just four more days later, will again be aided by the 7lb claim of Aaron Mackay.
The first division appears a more open affair — with Stamp Of Authority Tribal Path Solomons Seal and Guiding for the short-list.
Conor Maxwell, who takes the ride on Tribal Path, will be aboard outsider Ivaldi in the opening Awards And Gifts Claiming Maiden. Dancing On A Dream Triple Nickle and Rehoboth Beach appear the ones to focus on here.
Jessica Harrington ’s Dancing On A Dream is fitted with blinkers for the first time. Pillar claimed the Holcroft Motors Drogheda Hill Sprint Handicap 12 months ago and he is back to defend his crown — while Leopardstown runner-up Malbas should be competitive in the concluding BetVictor Handicap.
