The Galway Races without crowds is a strange phenomenon, but the show must go on and the traditional Plate is a competitive race on day three at Ballybrit.
The racing has been no less enjoyable on the television screen, and with the ground drying out all the time, conditions should be perfect for the all National Hunt card of eight races from 4.45.
My view on Galway from a betting perspective is that it's difficult. If you are having an interest, keep it to small stakes.
6.45 - Galway Plate
22 runners will go to post for the feature and regardless of ability, a horse will need luck in running over the 2 miles and 6 furlongs at this tight, turning track with two fences to be jumped in quick succession before an uphill finish.
The Willie Mullins trained Robin Des Foret travelled like the best horse in the Paddy Power Chase over 3 miles at Leopardstown back at Christmas, but ran out of gas in the run-in. He's straightforward in that he travels and jumps, but often finds little at the business end. However, that's factored into a price of 20/1 and with some bookmakers paying 1/5 the odds to finish in the first six places, he might be worth a euro each way.
4.45 - Novice Hurdle
The Henry De Bromhead trained Tellmesomethinggirl was an expensive purchase from the point to point ranks and Rachael Blackmore's quiet style will suit this improving mare who registered a taking success at Roscommon last time out. At odds of 4/1, she may put it up to the Elliott and Mullins battalions.
5.45 - Maiden Hurdle
If Rachael Blackmore's luck is in today, then our luck may be in. She rides the John McConnell trained Hand in my Pocket, one for the Alanis Morrisette fans. This mare won a bumper at Bellewstown last time and the form has been franked. She's a 5/2 shot to go in again and could take all the beating.
7.45 - Mares Bumper
Willie Mullins saddles the favourite in the concluding two races, but it might be worth taking each-way prices on alternatives. In this mares flat race, Margaret Mullins sends out the unraced Tracey Bubbles. I see this horse is part-owned by one Padraic Joyce. The stable is flying and if the horse is forward, she could make the frame at 18/1.
8.15 - Bumper
The Jessica Harrington yard has been in decent form and it might be worth availing of the 9/1 available on Mighty Meggsie, who is related to the formerly useful Burn and Turn. Finian Maguire rides and he's already had a big winner this week. You never know!
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