Curragh 1:45 Result

In a typically chaotic 26-runner Curragh sprint handicap, recent, progressive form and a fresh angle matter most. Sondad's form figures 019171 show he's in career-best shape, winning his last two starts including a recent 1 (most likely a decent handicap) with a 9 sandwiched in between at a bigger field/track. He carries top weight at 144lbs off an OR of 109 which reflects a genuine leap in ability - handicappers respect proven improvers. The added blinkers (v) for this run is a positive booster given Michael & David Easterby have a good record freshening tricky sprinters with headgear changes. Joanna Mason has ridden him previously and understands his hold-up profile, useful in a race that will see a fast pace up front from several front-running types (Ocean's Breath, Dark Ace, Rosie Frith) that should set it up for a strong-finishing type. Draw 7 is workable, not extreme either way at the Curragh 6f, avoiding the widest berths that can be exposed if the pace bends one way. His rivals at the top of the market - Dark Thirty, Tango Flare, Coul Angel, Keke, Unique Journey - are all solid but either resurfacing from indifferent recent efforts or facing questions about trip/draw. Given Sondad's rock-solid recent trajectory, the yielding ground (his damsire Indesatchel line handles cut fine, and Washington DC sire line also produces horses who act on ease), and that he is fresh for this having had a break, he looks the most complete package. He's unlikely to be a big price given his rating advantage, but with the assured claim in recent placings, he offers the strongest combination of form, fitness and conditions-fit in this typically messy sprint handicap.