GOLD CUP – SECOND ROUND DRAW

Ian Fortune

The second-round draw of the Paddy Kehoe Suspended Ceilings Gold Cup has thrown up some fine heats including one nightmare heat for a commentator.

Derby champion Born Warrior may have suffered defeat in the opening round but looked very well in himself and has been handed a very favourable second round draw.

Jennifer O’Donnell’s brilliant son of Ballymac Best will wear his beloved stripes in the penultimate heat of the round and looks certain to get loose of his rivals in the early yards. Rathdown Molly is certain to go up well on the inside of the track, while Crokers Spirit is perfectly drawn on the fence but both may struggle to match Born Warrior to the third turn.

The opening heat could be quite the tongue-twister for yours truly on commentary duty. Kilgraney Sydney, Stream Of Sydney, Galloping Sydney and Killahan Sydney all take their place and it could be a tale of four Sydneys. Throw in the early paced duo of Storys Law and Pintsnotpilates and it’s also a race to look forward to.

Heat 3 is packed with talented trackers, although one suspects Another Holiday and Clona Duke will heat the market. Opening round scorer Cloneden Flash has a nice draw on the fence, while Bogger Hunter is always capable of a big run.

The final heat is a wide-open affair with all six holding claims. There could be quite a battle to the corner while Toolmaker Sydney will finish at speed.

The full draw can be found here: https://www.grireland.ie/racing/upcoming-race-cards/upcoming-race-card-summary/?track=SPK&id=105104&date=11-Feb-2023