Naas preview: Palace to have the edge over Avenue Gabriel

It might be Irish Derby week but it is next month’s Curragh Oaks that will be to the forefront of Classic thoughts during tonight’s Listed Naas feature which can see Palace successfully earn a third shot at a Group One prize.

For a horse with such a big home reputation this season, it has been a relative anti-climax for the Aidan O’Brien-trained filly so far.

Getting just edged out in a Guineas Trial at Leopardstown was a fine effort by Palace considering she showed signs of being in season before the race and on the strength of that she was Joseph O’Brien’s pick for the Irish 1,000 Guineas last month. That decision was made before the going turned very heavy and she finished well behind her stable companion Marvellous, as well as Avenue Gabriel who ran an admirable fourth after seeing plenty of daylight and opposes again tonight.

Quick going

Palace subsequently never showed with a chance in the Epsom Oaks but a return to 10 furlongs for this Oaks Trial could suit and the forecast quick going certainly should.

Both she and Avenue Gabriel have entries in the Irish Oaks, and also in Sunday's Group One Pretty Polly Stakes, but Palace could have the edge.

Monsieur Power might boast an 87 rating but he doesn't hold entries for the July Cup and the Sussex Stakes like Cougar Mountain who makes a belated start to the season. Calumet Farm's colours are among the most famous in the US and have been making quite an impression here this season, something that can continue with the Curragh fifth Baroque Poet in the opening juvenile maiden.