Tara steps up to Listed company The progressive Arya Tara is one of six declared runners for the Listed Irish Stallion Farms EBF Stanerra Stakes at Leopardstown on Thursday evening. The Joseph O'Brien-trained three-year-old won her maiden at Tipperary when stepped up to a mile and a half for the first time, before following up in the Apprentice Derby at the Curragh. She completed a hat-trick by scoring at Roscommon on her most recent start, and the 96-rated bay is now tried over a mile and six for the first time. The Dermot Weld-trained Alveena is the highest rated horse in the field, and she has to carry over a stone more than three of her rivals. She won the valuable Cork Derby last month, and finished third to Sword Fighter on her most recent effort in the Group Two Curragh Cup. Gambling Girl, who is better known for her exploits over obstacles, is another leading contender. She won her maiden over the course and distance in July 2014, and it will be interesting to see how she gets on here. Jessica Harrington trains Gambling Girl, and she is also represented by Glenmayne. The John Oxx-trained Avenante and Aidan O'Brien's Etched complete the line-up. O'Brien snr saddles Sportsmanship in the opening race on the card, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. This son of War Front is sure to go close after he finished a good second on his most recent outing at Naas. Drake Passage also filled the runner-up spot on his debut over course and distance last month, and h e could be the one to side with in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden. Almadaa, Sufoof and Korbous are a few for the shortlist in the ICON Apprentice Handicap, while Seville Star looks the one to beat in the Hermitage Green Maiden. Rockview Emperor has been knocking on the door of late and he should give a good account of himself in the Racecourse Of The Year Handicap. Escape Paradise, Honor Oak, and Settle For Red appear to be his main rivals.
