Curragh Tips Sunday: Aidan O’Brien Set For More Grade 1 Domination?

William Hill News take a look at every race at the Curragh on Sunday afternoon, with tips and predictions for the card.

Master trainer Aidan O’Brien holds an extraordinary record in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes, having won it a staggering 17 times since 1998.

His past champions include household names like George Washington (2005) and Mastercraftsman (2008), but can he win it again on Sunday? Our horse racing expert Steven Mullington previews the entire Curragh card:

1.15 – 6f EBF Maiden (2-y-o)

Much of the horse racing betting for this race will be focused around the Aidan O’Brien newcomers, but I am prepared to take then in with Noel Meade’s JOLTIN JOE.

Owned by Meade himself, and bred at the useful Tally-Ho Stud, this Persian Force-colt can make a good impression on his debut.

1.45 – 7f EBF Fillies Juvenile Race (2-y-o)

Ghaiyyath-filly CHATTERING CLASSES caught my eye purely on breeding and she hails from a decent yard too, that of Jessica Harrington.

She benefits from a 3lb weight allowance under the race conditions, which she can hopefully exploit under her rider Shane Foley.

2.15 – 7f EBF Maiden (2-y-o)

RAGING BULL is sired by Wootton Bassett which should make him a major player in this seven furlong maiden.

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, 5lb claimer Jack Cleary has been given the ride which could prove to be a very smart move by O’Brien.

2.50 – 5f Handicap (3yo+)

Course and distance winner GAZELLE D’OR (NAP) has been knocking on the door of late and can get back to winning ways in this sprint contest.

Sam Coen claims a useful 5lbs, which further enhances the chances of this four-year-old filly, who already has 5 victories to her name.

3.25 – 6f Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Group 3) 

BIG GOSSEY (NB) absolutely loves The Curragh, having secured an incredible 10 career wins at this venue alone, and who would deny him win number 11 on Sunday?

Dropping back down to six furlongs on Sunday is ideal after almost catching Group 1 winning Power Blue over seven last time up.

4.00 – 6f Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (Group 1)

SUN GODDESS is currently the 5/4 favourite in our sports betting and holds a massive chance of winning this prestigious Group 1 prize.

Her only recent defeat was a runner-up finish against a massive 25-runner field in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. If she runs anywhere near that level again you could almost consider her a banker.

4.35 – 6f Handicap (3yo+)

He may be carrying top weight but course and distance winner GO ATHLETICO looks well placed to lift the silverware once more.

Beaten just under a length at Galway a fortnight ago, the eight-year-old is no stranger to the winner’s circle, having been there nine times previously.

5.10 – 1m Handicap (3yo+)

Jessica Harrington could well have another winner in the lucky last as her in-form DARK VIPER looks poised to run another solid race.

The 83-rated five-year-old comes here on the back of two cracking efforts at Leopardstown.

*Odds subject to change – prices accurate at the time of writing*