Our Down Royal racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 29th May 2026. The action gets underway at 16:30 and runs through to 20:30, with going reported as GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Maxwell Smart boasts a 33.33% strike rate from 3 runs at the track, W J Lee has been in fine form here with 30 wins from 159 rides, P Twomey’s yard sends out runners with a 33.33% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Down Royal
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Down Royal over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Irish Sun | The Irish Sun | 20 | 3 | 15% | 50% |
| Brian Flanagan | Irish Daily Star | 11 | 0 | 0% | 63.64% |
16:30 – BOYLE Sports Money Back If 2nd To SP Fav Handicap
Race Details: 5f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This looks a lively little 3yo sprint rather than a deep one, and the market has understandably latched on to Baggot Street after he got his head in front last time. He’s the obvious one, but he’s not bombproof in a race where plenty of these are still learning their trade over the minimum trip. This Guy has been running in better company than this and has the raw figures to be very competitive if settling and travelling more sweetly, while Lady Landhort and Hooves Your Daddy both arrive with bits of handicap form that give them a squeak. Down Royal’s sharp 5f can reward speed and position, so the draw and early pace matter, and this feels the sort of contest where a well-treated improver could still ambush the favourite.
Top Selections
1. This Guy – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Colin Keane | Trainer: Daniel James Murphy | Form: 235678 | Rating: 74 | Topspeed: 67
He hasn’t been getting the job done, but there’s enough in the profile to make him interesting in a race like this. A mark of 74 is the highest in the field, and that topspeed figure of 67 stands out too, suggesting he has shown more than most of these at his best. The recent finishing positions don’t scream confidence, but they’ve also had the effect of easing the market a touch, and 7/2 is fair enough with Colin Keane booked. In a race full of unconvincing finishers, he might just be the one with the strongest underlying form. Bet: WIN
2. Hooves Your Daddy – 13/2 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Ronan Whelan | Trainer: Jarlath P Fahey | Form: 5700-2 | Rating: 71 | Topspeed: 33
He’s the each-way play at the prices after a much more encouraging reappearance second, which hinted that he’s started to work things out now handicapping. That run came after a string of duck eggs in maidens and novice company, so there’s every chance it was the start of a better spell rather than a flash in the pan. From stall 3 he should be able to hold a handy pitch, and in these 5f handicaps that can be half the battle. At 13/2 with three places on offer, he makes plenty of appeal as the sensible each-way punt against the front pair in the betting. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
This Guy is the win bet on class and figures, with the booking of Colin Keane only adding to the case. Hooves Your Daddy is the each-way alternative at a workable price after shaping much better on his return. Baggot Street is the obvious danger after last-time-out success, while Lady Landhort also enters the reckoning if building on her recent third.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baggot Street | 3/1 | 9/4 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| This Guy | 7/2 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Love Bomb | 10/1 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Plushy | 10/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Cashel Blue | 15/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 13/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Hooves Your Daddy | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Spiced Gold | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Spirit Above | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Lady Landhort | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Mini Cotai | 17/2 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Paddy Power) |
17:05 – BOYLE Sports Money Back Meetings Every Day Fillies & Mares Maiden
Race Details: 7f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This looks a fair maiden rather than a deep one, and the obvious starting point is What About Us, who has already set the standard with placed efforts and arrives here after another solid second. She deserves favouritism, but she is not bombproof and there are a couple in behind her with enough upside to keep things interesting. Justiciar has the highest rating in the field but has had chances, while Hasita took a nice step forward when third on her return and shapes like this extra furlong can help. Rebel Wave also appeals as one of the more interesting lightly raced types. Plenty of the newcomers and outsiders need major improvement, so this should mostly be decided by which of the better-known fillies progresses most.
Top Selections
1. What About Us – 2/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 23-2 | Rating: 85 | Topspeed: 30
She sets the clearest form standard and, in a maiden like this, that counts for plenty. Her profile is solid rather than flashy, but there is no knocking a filly who has already gone close more than once and returned with another runner-up effort. An opening mark of 85 tells its own story and it leaves most of these with a bit to find on bare evidence. The slight question is whether she is one of those who keeps finding one too good, but this does not look an especially strong contest and 2/1 with Paddy Power makes plenty of appeal if you simply want the most likely winner. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Hasita – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Ben Coen | Trainer: J P Murtagh | Form: 08-3 | Rating: 75 | Topspeed: 44
She is the one I like as the each-way alternative because there was a lot more encouragement in that seasonal reappearance than the bare form figure might suggest. After two quiet efforts last year, she came back to finish third and at least hinted that she is beginning to learn the job. Murtagh’s fillies often improve with racing, and this move to 7f could easily suit on good ground. She still has a bit to find with the favourite on ratings, but she has had only three starts and remains a progressive sort in a race where several of these look exposed already. At 7/2 with Bet365, she makes each-way sense. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
What About Us is the straight win play because she brings the strongest, most reliable maiden form into the race. For an each-way punt, Hasita looks the value if building on her comeback third over this longer trip. Justiciar is the obvious danger on ratings, while Rebel Wave is another who could easily step forward from her debut.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youse Raven Mad | 50/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Cactus | 8/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Courtlough Gula | 125/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 125/1 | 150/1 (Betfair) |
| Croi Gra | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Dandymaria | 18/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Due In June | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Hasita | 7/2 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Justiciar | 7/2 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Miss Moore Cen | 33/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Rebel Wave | 15/2 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Ruby Vega | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Sioux The Boss | 16/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Wearing Stars | 11/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| What About Us | 15/8 | 15/8 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 (Paddy Power) |
17:40 – BOYLE Sports Extra Places Every Day Handicap
Race Details: 7f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This is a proper Down Royal handicap in that it looks competitive at first glance and only gets trickier the longer you stare at it. Brains and Amemri bring the most obvious recent form, while Faoladh arrives on the back of a solid third and still feels capable of a bit more at this trip. Shoot To Kill is a standing dish in these races and rarely runs a bad one for long, but he is no gift in a 17-runner field. Adrian McGuinness saddles a few with claims, notably Una Matata and Land Of The Giants, and low-to-middle draws like Bay Of Dreams, Eichan San and Lohengrin could be useful if the race develops that way. It is not a deep race, but it is a very trappy one.
Top Selections
1. Faoladh – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Adam Browne-Souza | Trainer: Andrew Slattery | Form: 0-9463 | Rating: 76 | Topspeed: 72
Faoladh looks the right answer in a race where plenty have bits and pieces of form but not many arrive with much momentum. That latest third suggested he is coming to the boil again, and a mark of 76 still gives him room if he can build on it. His topspeed figure stacks up well enough for this level and, crucially, he does not need to improve a stone to win a race like this. From stall 10 he should have options, and at 9/2 he makes more appeal than some of the shorter, older handicappers who have shown their hand plenty of times. Bet: WIN
2. Una Matata – 9/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Gabriella Hill | Trainer: Adrian McGuinness | Form: 177163 | Rating: 76 | Topspeed:
Una Matata is the each-way play because her recent profile is simply more trustworthy than most of these. She has been knocking around in decent order, and that latest third says she is still holding her form well. The wide draw in 15 is not ideal over 7f, but she has enough tactical pace to avoid getting completely marooned if things break right. McGuinness tends to place these tough handicap types well, and this mare looks exactly the sort to give you a run for your money. At 9/1 with four places on offer, she makes plenty of each-way sense in a race packed with unreliable characters. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Faoladh is the win bet because he looks to be arriving at the right time and still has scope from this mark. Una Matata is the each-way punt at a fairer price, especially with four places available in a big field. The obvious dangers are Brains, who has been threatening, and Amemri, whose recent figures are rock-solid, while Shoot To Kill is another easy one to see in the shake-up.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thaloria | 40/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Una Matata | 9/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Shoot To Kill | 6/1 | 18/5 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Charming Whisper | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Faoladh | 9/2 | 16/5 | 16/5 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Imperial Dream | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Bay Of Dreams | 28/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Land Of The Giants | 11/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Minaun View | 8/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Amemri | 3/1 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 3/1 | 10/3 (Betfair) |
| Eichan San | 9/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Rappell | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Lohengrin | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Dynamic Force | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Burford Beauty | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Brains | 4/1 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Goldsmith | 22/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
18:15 – BOYLE Sports Home Of The Early Payout Handicap
Race Details: 7f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This looks a proper 3yo handicap rather than a gift for punters, with plenty of these arriving with something to prove and only a handful bringing solid recent form. Imnotleavinyou sets the standard on bare consistency after three straight seconds, while Sweet Baby Zou is the interesting one from a top yard now dropped into this company after shaping better than the figures suggest. Bullet Bourbon and Andosky are in the mix if bouncing back, and Sand Art is the lurker on figures from a basement weight. The trouble is that quite a few have been expensive to follow, so I would not call this a deep race. It feels more about who is best treated by the handicap and who gets a clean trip over this sharp 7f.
Top Selections
1. Sweet Baby Zou – 11/4 with Bet365
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 9007 | Rating: 61 | Topspeed: 57
The form figures are hardly pretty, but this is exactly the type of runner Joseph O’Brien can place to good effect once handicapping starts to loosen its grip. Sweet Baby Zou has a workable mark of 61, a fair enough Topspeed figure for this grade, and is not meeting a bunch of hardened winners here. In a race where the obvious one has had chances, this filly makes more appeal as the one who could still be ahead of her mark. The market has cottoned on, of course, but 11/4 still makes sense in a race lacking depth if she gets a sensible ride from J M Sheridan and improves as expected. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Sand Art – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Julian Pietropaolo | Trainer: Kevin Thomas Coleman | Form: 90-87 | Rating: 67 | Topspeed: 70
Sand Art is the each-way angle because there is at least one proper piece of ability in the locker, and that Topspeed mark of 70 jumps off the page in this company. He has not put it all together this season, but he drops in here carrying just 123 and that gives him a sporting chance if this race turns tactical or messy late on. Plenty of these are more exposed than their profiles first suggest, whereas Sand Art still has scope to be a bit better than recent bare form. At 10/1 with four places on offer, he looks the value play for those wanting to take on the front pair in the betting. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Sweet Baby Zou is the win play because this is the kind of ordinary handicap where a well-bred improver from a major yard can suddenly look well treated. For an each-way punt, Sand Art makes plenty of appeal off a light weight and with four places available. The obvious danger is Imnotleavinyou, whose recent string of seconds gives him strong claims if he runs to the same level again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Baby Zou | 11/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 11/4 (Bet365) |
| Meriden | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Andosky | 8/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Betfair) |
| Fontaine Khaled | 10/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Imnotleavinyou | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Queen Of Newark | 14/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Stonyfalls | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Bullet Bourbon | 15/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Thistle Cross | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Dervo Annie | 14/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Beau Army | 14/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Sand Art | 10/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Honey Dale | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Adrian Wall | Fontaine Khaled |
18:50 – His Majesty’s Plate (Listed Race)
Race Details: 2m | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This looks a compact but fairly informative Listed heat rather than a devilishly deep puzzle. Carmers sets the standard on the figures and comes here from a yard that knows exactly how to place one, while Tennessee Stud is the obvious alternative on ratings and has the class to make this interesting if bouncing back from a flat reappearance. Dallas Star has been knocking on the door in this sort of staying company and could easily get involved again, especially in a six-runner race lacking depth behind the principals. Layfayette is admirable but asks a bit more at nine, while Mont St Michel and Alba Chiara look up against it on the numbers. Tactics will matter over this trip, but the likeliest outcome is that the market has the first two right.
Top Selections
1. Carmers – 1/1 with Bet365
Jockey: W J Lee | Trainer: P Twomey | Form: 1125-5 | Rating: 118 | Topspeed: 116
Carmers is hard to oppose in a race of this shape. He was progressive last season, his form figures tell that story clearly enough, and although he was only fifth on his return, that run should have knocked the edge off him nicely. The key point is that his overall profile still screams quality stayer and a mark of 118 gives him solid claims in this company. W J Lee is an excellent man to have aboard in a tactical small-field contest, and the Twomey team rarely wastes bullets in races like this. At even money he is no giveaway, but he still looks the most likely winner. Bet: WIN
2. Dallas Star – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Donagh O’Connor | Trainer: Robson De Aguiar | Form: -23325 | Rating: 116 | Topspeed: 67
Dallas Star appeals as the each-way angle because he tends to run his race and this contest does not look overloaded with reliable opposition. His recent sequence suggests a horse holding his form well without quite getting his head in front, but those placed efforts give him a very workable platform here. He receives 4lb from the top pair and his rating of 116 says he is not far away from the main players at all. In a six-runner Listed race, consistency can be worth plenty, and 7/2 makes more appeal than some of the shorter alternatives if you want a solid each-way punt against the favourite. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Carmers is the straight win play and looks the percentage call in a race where the depth falls away quickly. For an each-way option, Dallas Star makes most appeal given his consistency and the weight pull with the principals. Tennessee Stud is the obvious danger if shrugging off that latest duck, but he is short enough in the market for a horse with something to prove.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carmers | 1/1 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 1/1 (Bet365) |
| Tennessee Stud | 5/2 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Dallas Star | 7/2 | 16/5 | 10/3 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Layfayette | 15/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Mont St Michel | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
| Alba Chiara | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
19:25 – BOYLE Sports Handicap
Race Details: 2m | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This is a proper staying handicap with plenty of moving parts rather than a deep race full of solid winners. Jurality is the obvious starting point after another creditable effort and has the profile of one who should be bang there again, while Fine Print arrives off a much better run and is one of the more persuasive threats despite a wide stall. Tassarolo has been knocking on the door without quite forcing it, and Mephisto is interesting off a light weight if building on his comeback fourth. There are a few lurkers lower down the weights, but several arrive badly out of form, which makes this more about who can be trusted to see out the trip strongly and handle the likely tactical test. Tricky, but not impossible.
Top Selections
1. Jurality – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: W J Lee | Trainer: Paul W Flynn | Form: 2-5553 | Rating: 66 | Topspeed: 59
Jurality makes plenty of appeal in a race where absolute solidity is in short supply. He has been running well enough in defeat, and that latest third suggested this mark of 66 is workable if things fall his way. The draw in 3 is a plus around here, W J Lee is a notable booking in this grade, and his profile at least says he will give you a run for your money. He is not wildly ahead of the assessor, but unlike many of these he comes here with recent form that actually stands up to scrutiny. At 7/2 he is short enough in a 17-runner handicap, but still the percentage call. Bet type: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Tassarolo – 7/1 with Bet365
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Denis Gerard Hogan | Form: 48-935 | Rating: 66 | Topspeed: 59
Tassarolo looks the each-way value from stall 1, which could be a handy place to be if this turns into a race where track position matters. Denis Hogan’s runner has been hinting that a race of this nature is within reach, and his recent figures are more respectable than flashy. He was not disgraced last time and had shaped better on his previous start, so there is enough there to think he can get involved again from the same mark as Jurality. He stays, he is fairly treated on old bits of form, and 7/1 in a race paying four places makes him a sensible each-way punt rather than a wild swing. Bet type: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple: Jurality is the win play because he brings the most dependable recent form and a good draw. Tassarolo is the each-way alternative at a fairer price, especially with four places on offer. Fine Print is the obvious danger if overcoming stall 16, while Mephisto is another to keep onside after a decent return.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tassarolo | 7/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Fine Print | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Timandi | 20/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Among The Pines | 25/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Pons Aelius | 22/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Lisnadill | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Maxwell Smart | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Al What | 9/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Mephisto | 11/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 6/1 | 7/1 (Betfair) |
| Jurality | 7/2 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Miners Cabin | 25/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Velvet And Vine | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Our Lucky Lady | 9/2 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Synchronize | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Edge Of Darkness | 11/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Sioux Grit | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Bang Po | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Brian Flanagan | Jurality |
20:00 – BOYLE Sports Daily Racing Rewards Handicap
Race Details: 1m 2f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This is a proper three-year-old handicap rather than a gift for punters, with several lightly-raced types open to better over this 1m2f. Harmani brings the most persuasive recent form and looks the solid one after two placed efforts, while Misty Cove arrives on the up after getting off the mark and has obvious scope for more. Eniac has been edging towards something too, though he is asked to concede weight all round, and Pierre Grosse is another with a fair chance if building on his latest second. At a bigger price, Lord Aus is interesting from stall 1 off a low weight. It looks a race where maturity and track position will matter, and I would much rather side with progressive profiles than exposed handicap types.
Top Selections
1. Harmani – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Colin Keane | Trainer: G M Lyons | Form: 27-32 | Rating: 86 | Topspeed: 70
Harmani makes plenty of appeal in a race where a few of these still have something to prove at the trip. He has done little wrong in two starts this term, finishing third and then second, and that latest effort suggested a first handicap success is well within reach. An opening mark of 86 looks workable rather than harsh, and the presence of Colin Keane for a Lyons runner in this sort of race is never something to brush aside. He has the profile of a colt ready to put things together now, and 4/1 is fair enough in a field where some of the market rivals are shorter on potential than achievement. Bet: WIN
2. Lord Aus – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Jamie Powell | Trainer: J P Murtagh | Form: 805 | Rating: 80 | Topspeed: 78
Lord Aus is the one at a price who could easily outrun his odds. His bare form figures do not leap off the page, but that topspeed figure of 78 is the best in the field and his latest fifth hinted that he is starting to get the hang of things. From stall 1, with just 122 to carry, he should be able to get a handy economical run, and this step into handicap company may be exactly what he needs. J P Murtagh’s three-year-olds can improve sharply once given a more realistic task, and 10/1 makes him a very playable each-way punt in a race with four places on offer. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Harmani is the win bet because he brings the cleanest recent profile and looks ready to cash in off 86. For an each-way alternative, Lord Aus makes plenty of sense off a light weight and a good draw at double-figure odds. The obvious dangers are Misty Cove, who is progressive after that recent win, and topweight Eniac, who has the class to be involved if coping with his burden.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eniac | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Pierre Grosse | 13/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Chapel Lane | 10/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Misty Cove | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Rapide Vega | 16/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Another Day Done | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Sutton Hoo | 8/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Vantage Code | 18/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Harmani | 4/1 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Oust | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Chestnut Palace | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Lord Aus | 10/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Grey Intentions | 22/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
20:30 – BOYLE Sports Best Odds Guaranteed Maiden
Race Details: 1m 2f | | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering) | | flat
This looks a fairly workable maiden rather than a red-hot one, and the market has latched on to the right horses. Teologia brings the standout rating of 86 and comes here off a solid second, so he sets the standard on paper. Maxminelli has been knocking on the door too and looks the obvious danger, while Nermal is lightly raced and open to more progress after just two starts. Gatlinburg and Cosmic Funk are not without hope if stepping forward again, but both need to prove they can finish the job. In a 14-runner field over this trip, tactical positioning and a bit of stamina will matter, but it still feels like the principals should dominate if they run to their marks.
Top Selections
1. Teologia – 5/2 with Betfair
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 5-92 | Rating: 86 | Topspeed: 76
Teologia is the one they all have to beat. That rating of 86 towers over this field and his latest second suggests he is getting the hang of things now. He already has the best Topspeed figure in the line-up as well, which matters in a maiden where plenty are still learning their trade. Joseph O’Brien’s runners in these middle-distance maidens are rarely here for the scenery, and if J M Sheridan can get him into a smooth rhythm from stall 9, he ought to take plenty of stopping. At 5/2 he is not a giveaway, but he is the most solid option in the race. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Nermal – 6/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Andrew Slattery | Trainer: Andrew Slattery | Form: 52 | Rating: 72 | Topspeed:
Nermal is the each-way play because he still has a bit of mystery about him, and that is often no bad thing in a race like this. He has only had the two starts, improved from fifth to second, and shaped like a colt who would appreciate this sort of trip. The bare rating leaves him with a bit to find on Teologia, but he is much less exposed than several of these and could easily take another step forward. Andrew Slattery knows exactly what he has here and a price of 6/1 looks fair enough for a horse with upside in a 14-runner maiden. He makes plenty of each-way appeal.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Teologia is the percentage call and makes most appeal as the straight win bet given his clear edge on ratings and recent form. For an each-way punt, Nermal looks the value play as an unexposed type who should stay and improve again. Maxminelli is the obvious danger, while Gatlinburg could also get involved if building on that latest fourth.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amrum | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Avec Grand Plaisir | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Cosmic Funk | 8/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Divelment | 16/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Gatlinburg | 9/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Kingcharles | 80/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Maxminelli | 4/1 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Nermal | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Second Line | 33/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Sonny Corleone | 11/1 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Espritroyale | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Moon Vega | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Tavarua | 100/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Teologia | 2/1 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Betfair) |
Down Royal Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maxwell Smart | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Alba Chiara | 4 | 1 | 25% | 100% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W J Lee | 159 | 30 | 18.87% | 41.51% |
| Scott McCullagh | 16 | 3 | 18.75% | 37.5% |
| Ronan Whelan | 44 | 8 | 18.18% | 36.36% |
| Colin Keane | 94 | 16 | 17.02% | 45.74% |
| Wayne Lordan | 24 | 4 | 16.67% | 29.17% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Down Royal:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P Twomey | 18 | 6 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Joseph Patrick O’Brien | 123 | 30 | 24.39% | 49.59% |
| A P O’Brien | 42 | 10 | 23.81% | 50% |
| Emmet Mullins | 31 | 7 | 22.58% | 54.84% |
| P G Fahey | 14 | 3 | 21.43% | 57.14% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Down Royal racing tips for Friday 29th May 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Down Royal today?
The first race at Down Royal on Friday 29th May 2026 goes off at 16:30, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Down Royal today?
The going at Down Royal is reported as GOOD, Good to firm in places (Watering).
How many races are at Down Royal today?
There are 8 races on the card at Down Royal today, running from 16:30 through to 20:30.
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