Dundalk (AW) 6:30 Verdict

Faoladh carries the top weight for a reason - OR 69 and last-run form of a win (recent "1" in 690015) just 8 days ago shows he's fit, in form and progressing. He shares connections quality with a fast-improving Kodi Bear sire-line (three runners by this sire in the field, suggesting the stallion's stock is working well at this class/track). Sam Coen's 5lb claim helps offset the topweight, and a quick backup run suggests the yard is happy with him. Smoke Them Out and Thaloria share the same 140lbs/OR69 mark but both are less freshly progressive (Thaloria hasn't run for 112 days and her recent form line is patchy 102600; Smoke Them Out's figures are more moderate placing efforts than true wins). Slight Of Foot (OR70) is the nominal top-rated but his profile (940938) shows more one-paced efforts than a proven closer, and it's a step up in class assessment given the rating. Given the糟 messy nature of this wide-field handicap, I favour the horse showing the freshest improvement and a genuine recent win, backed by a positive/attacking ride from a capable claiming apprentice. The gelding's May improvement and quick backup suggest the trainer is pushing him while sweet, and with plenty of pace/traffic likely in a 14-runner blanket-finish contest, forwardly-placed, in-form types with a genuine recent win are the biggest threat to the market principals.