Andy Holding looks ahead to the weekend’s Group 1 action, analysing the favourite as well as some longer priced players for the Irish Derby 2022 at The Curragh.
From the hurly-burly, relentless nature of Royal Ascot, this week's action understandably takes a huge drop-off in quality, but we don't have to wait too long for some top-class Group-race action as the weekend's feature looms large in the shape of the Irish Derby.
Who is the favourite?
As ever, the Epsom Derby is likely to have a significant bearing on the outcome at The Curragh and the obvious starting point is the runner-up, Westover (best price 7/4).
The way he finished off the race at the Surrey venue strongly suggested he would have been an even more potent force had he received a clear run and with the wide, open galloping nature of the Co Kildare track sure to play into his strengths, Ralph Beckett's inmate makes a good deal of sense down the front end of the market.
Where is the each-way value?
Having already showed up prominently against the likely favourite last time out, Cash (8/1 through oddschecker) makes plenty of appeal as a strong each-way alternative. Universally excepted as being extremely unlucky at Sandown back in April, the way he hit the line and pedigree strongly points towards him been seen in an even better light over 1m4f.
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And what about those at the biggest prices?
Of those looking to muscle their way into the picture at a bigger price, Hannibal Barca (best price 12/1) appeals as one who could easily take the step up in class in his stride as his performance when scoring over the same course on his seasonal bow was done so in a fast time.
Entered up for several races at Royal Ascot, the fact he swerved many tempting engagements to come here point towards connections believing he has what it takes for Group 1 level.
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