16:45 Crowne Plaza Hotel Dundalk Handicap (45-65) (Div 1)

Race preview

MS THOMPSON might win this open looking handicap. Her early form was poor but in recent months has shown good progression and dead-heated with today's rival Solar System to win over CD in November. She was subsequently well enough held in December but has obvious claims in this ordinary handicap and is better drawn, in 10, that Solar System in 16. Solar System also has his chance on identical terms to the pair's dead-heat and was also subsequently beaten here in December. Dual winner Ragtime Red's rating has fallen to a career low mark and has a chance having run well enough here recently, with today's 10lbs claimer again in the saddle. Merroir is interesting on debut for Joseph O'Brien having shown some bits of useful form for Ray Cody, She was placed a the Galway festival last August and while she failed to build on that run, today's race is quite winneable but she does lack a recent outing.