Sandown
Race 2 – Irish Butterfly
Jockey – Celine Gaudray
2400m – Barrier 9
In-form stayer Irish Butterfly returns to Sandown today looking to make it back-to-back wins at this track and trip. The seven-year-old gelding has been racing in terrific fashion, winning two of his past three starts, the outlier a sound fourth placing in a strong race at The Valley eight weeks ago. Celine Gaudray stays on after riding him to victory last time out and will again push forward from her outside alley. There is little early speed to contend with so she should find the front comfortably in the long run to the first turn. Sing For Peace is the runner to beat after being competitive in stronger grade. The Patrick Payne four-year-old is unbeaten on soft ground and will likely take a sit behind Irish Butterfly in the run. He’ll be strong late and prove hard to hold out. Milford Sound is another who would have enjoyed hearing the rain overnight. He looked to have every chance here last start but can’t be ruled out as a winning hope today. Concede a chance to Mimi’s Award but she’s a long time out of the winner’s stall. Irish Butterfly will have the opportunity to control the race from the lead or outside the lead and should be afforded every chance in the run. He’s had a hurdle trial since his last start in March and is switched on and ready to perform. He’s a more attractive prospect since using his early speed and will take catching again this afternoon.
Currently, Irish Butterfly is a $6.50 chance in the market.