Elleval has sound claims in Vincent O’Brien Ruby Stakes

Elleval and Captain Joy come out best on official ratings in the Listed feature race, although neither has been showing their best form of late. Elleval, winner of the Meydan Classic Trial in February and second in the UAE Derby, looked an improved performer in Dubai.

He was up against some useful animals when not given a hard time behind Scintillula at Leopardstown last time. Beyond Thankful was employed as a pacemaker for Loch Garman in the French Derby in June but is a decent colt in his own right.

He kept on well under pressure to finish just over a length away in third behind Royal Blue Star in a Listed contest at Cork last time. The winner has since finished last of seven behind Gordon Lord Byron at Leopardstown whilst the O’Brien pair of Hanky Panky and Snow Queen continue to disappoint.

David Wachman’s Ruler Of France can lose his maiden tag in the opening race after finishing second on his first two starts. He was only beaten a head by Expedition at Limerick on his debut and then finished half a length behind Glory Boy at Listowel.

Aidan O’Brien’s Kingfisher could be a threat if he improves on his debut fourth behind the impressive Free Eagle. Paddy Mac finished third at Sligo and a reproduction of that effort could be good enough for a place.

Tax Reform is another who deserves to get his head in front in the 5.30. He was just touched off in a photograph at Galway but was well beaten by Lady O’Malley at Ballinrobe.

Piet Mondrian has not been seen since March and a better bet may be Dermot Weld’s Late Rosebud. She ran her best race when second to Feasta at Leopardstown and was not disgraced on her latest effort.

Maudlin Magdalen is seeking a hat-trick in the 6.00 but meets a couple of progressive types in Target Acquired and Indian Icon. Course and distance winner Cairdliuil cannot be discounted off bottom weight.

Woodsophiesmile can follow up her Galway success if she sneaks in as a reserve for the 7.00 race. Zelos Dream looks most likely to profit from her absence.