Galway Races: High Stakes and Top Picks for Day Three

Day three of the Galway Races promises to deliver excitement as the prestigious Galway Plate takes center stage. Scheduled for a later start at 6:40 PM, this year’s race features a competitive field vying for a share of the €270,000 prize pot. Among the notable contenders is last year’s Galway Hurdle champion, Nurburgring, who aims to achieve the rare double of winning both the Plate and the Hurdle. The last horse to do so was Ansar in 2001 and 2004.

Trainer Gordon Elliott will run seven horses in the 2m6f race, seeking to secure his fifth victory in this event. Another strong contender is Noel Meade’s Jesse Evans, who has been a close second in the Galway Hurdle on two occasions—a win here would be well-deserved.

Top Picks for the Day

The opening race at 5:05 PM is the Tote Guaranteed Placepot Today Maiden Hurdle, where HIPOP DE LOIRE is expected to attract considerable backing. Trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, the eight-year-old was a runner-up in a similar event last year and has shown impressive form since, with a strong performance anticipated in the upcoming Ebor at York. Having previously achieved six wins in Poland and Germany, he looks well-positioned to take the lead today.

Another notable entry is Zanndabad, a flat runner trained by Tony Martin. Although rated at 117 over hurdles, he has the potential for a strong performance.

In the 5:35 PM Tote Money-back 2nd Every Race Today Handicap Hurdle, ARCTIC GALE is tipped as a strong contender. Trained by Emmet Mullins, this six-year-old recently won a race at Tipperary and has a hurdle rating of 109, which seems favorable. Following a second-place finish in both a bumper and a maiden hurdle at the Galway Festival in previous years, Arctic Gale is expected to be in contention.

Key Competitions and Insights

The 6:05 PM Tote Guaranteed Jackpot Mares Handicap Hurdle features REDWOOD QUEEN, who is viewed as a strong candidate after a controversial unseating incident at Wexford in May. Now under the guidance of trainer Cian Collins, he makes his debut with top amateur rider Rob James booked to claim 7lbs. Despite the competitive nature of this race, his performance is highly anticipated.

The main event, the 6:40 PM Tote Galway Plate, sees OLYMPIC MAN being suggested as a speculative pick. Although he faces challenges with his jumping, this eight-year-old has shown promise and may be well handicapped at 10st13lbs. With a background that includes participation in both the Scottish Grand National and the Bet365 Gold Cup, he could thrive in this format.

The 7:15 PM Download The Tote App (Q.R.) Maiden, featuring amateur riders, is likely to be contested by EDELAK, who has been training well. This three-year-old colt is connected to the late Aga Khan and is showing signs of improvement through the summer.

The evening’s final race, the 7:50 PM Watch Danny’s Diary – 15 Years Of Tote Memories Handicap, is expected to be competitive. SUJET, trained by Dermot Weld, is anticipated to perform well despite a recent handicap increase of 10lbs. With a solid win at the Curragh during Derby weekend, he may be capable of securing another victory.

As the Galway Races continue, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Each race not only showcases formidable talent but also holds the potential for thrilling outcomes that keep fans engaged. The stakes are high, and the performances on the course are sure to be memorable.