DARK VADER can get Joseph O’Brien’s campaign off to the perfect start with a win in the Naas Racecourse Launches The 2020 Irish Flat Season Handicap (3.00).
The son of Dark Angel has shown progressive form on the all-weather this winter and his pedigree suggests heavy ground will pose Dark Vader no problems as he bids to extend his upward curve back on turf.
O'Brien's father Aidan can also reach the winners' enclosure, with LIPPIZANER (2.00) and SIR DRAGONET (4.00) expected to score.
The former cost connections a lot of money as a yearling and he is related to two good performers in Australia.
Last June Sir Dragonet started favourite for the Derby and finished fifth behind stablemate Anthony Van Dyck.
He has his sights lowered to Listed level for his seasonal debut and should have too much class for his six rivals, although his price reflects that prediction.
Later on the seven-race card, KISS FOR A JEWEL (4.30) is value to upset the market leader Even So in the Group Three Naas Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes.
She disappointed on her final start of last season but the trip may have been too far.
The daughter of Kingman is effective on a soft surface and can put her experience to good use.
Monday's horse racing selections for racing at Naas on Monday as fixtures continue in Ireland:
2.00 LIPIZZANER
2.30 GRIZZLY
3.00 DARK VADER (NAP)
3.30 IN FROM THE COLD (NB)
4.00 SIR DRAGONET
4.30 KISS FOR A JEWEL
5.00 LOUGH CUTRA
DOUBLE: DARK VADER and IN FROM THE COLD
