18+ | Commercial Content | T&Cs apply | Wagering and T&Cs apply | Play Responsibly | Advertising Disclosure

One Smack Mac expected to put it up to Killavullan favourite

One Smack Mac and Colin Keane hold leading claims at Leopardstown. One Smack Mac and Colin Keane hold leading claims at Leopardstown.
© Photo Healy Racing

Connections believe One Smack Mac has every chance of putting it up to odds-on favourite Exactly in this afternoons Group 3 Killavullan Stakes at Leopardstown.

While acknowledging that the current 4/6f market leader is very much the horse to beat, Assistant Trainer Shane Lyons feels that their recent Fairyhouse Listed runner-up also has his chance.

Lyons said: "Obviously, the 110-rated horse (Exactly) has danced all the dances.

"Our horse had a great run back in Fairyhouse and this kind of ground will be to his liking. I don't think it will be a problem for him and his sire (Kodiac) goes on any ground.

"He is a big, strong horse and he will love going up in trip.

"He is flying and is in great order.

"He is definitely a next-year project, but this is well in his remit as well."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham.

About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.