Ludica among Curragh tips for Sunday
David Metcalf | July 16, 2016
Lots to like about Lucida
Lucida can cash-in on a drop in class to land the Group 2 Kilboy Estate Stakes at The Curragh (16.15).
The Jim Bolger trained filly was a top class juvenile and ran a blinder when runner-up to Legatissimo in last year’s 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket.
Lucida was clear entering the final furlong and only got headed close home to go down by just 3/4 of a length.
The daughter of Shamardal backed that up with a fine 3/4 length third to Ervedya in the Group 1 Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot, running on strongly to be nearest at the finish having been given too much to do.
Not disgraced in Pretty Polly
Those runs represent very strong form in the context of this contest and Lucida comes into it on the back of a decent third to Minding in the Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes at this venue.
Although beaten 9 1/2 lengths, the four-year-old stuck to the task well without being given a hard time having again been set plenty to do.
This assignment looks less taxing and, with three runs under her belt this season, Lucida should now be spot on to do herself justice.
Rose to bloom on handicap debut
Rose De Pierre created a good impression when winning on debut and can maintain her unbeaten record with victory in the 1m handicap (15.40).
The Dermot Weld trained filly was backed as if defeat was out of the question when beating Ottile by a nose in a 22-runner maiden over course and distance back in May.
Despite only scrambling home there was lots to like about the way in which the daughter of Dubawi travelled at the head of affairs and dug deep to get the job done.
The runner-up, sixth and seventh have also all come out and won since to give the form a boost and an opening handicap mark of 91 may seriously underestimate Rose De Pierre’s ability.
To me she looks a potential pattern performer in the making and, with the prospect of plenty improvement looking assured, can take this en route to better things.
Curragh selections
14.00: Velveteen
14.35: Joyce Compton
15.05: Adaay
15.40: Rose De Pierre (NB)
16.15: Lucida (NAP)
16.50: Glamorous Approach
17.25: Surprisingly
Related
There are more tips from The Curragh in Coral’s horse racing section.
