Tetrarch Stakes 2011

2.50 Curragh

Dylan Thomas European Breeders Fund Tetrarch Stakes (Listed) (Class 1)  (3YO only)

Winner €32,500

Pick: Glor Na Mara (win)

Alexander Pope: Took his time as two year old but came good last backend when winning twice, much improved when thrashing field in AW race at Dundalk; Creditable effort behind very good sorts in UAE Derby on comeback (possible non stayer), and can be expected to improve for that.

Dubawi Star: Off the mark at fourth time of asking last season and did so in impressive style, but would have to be improving a lot again to take pattern races this season and others preferred.

Foolproof: Stepped up on previous efforts when winning nursery at Cork off 74, but higher mark got the better of him when he was unable to get a place and this much harder.

Glor Na Mara: One of Ireland’s best juveniles last season, coming second in Phoenix, Futurity & Tower Stakes; Third behind Frankel in Dewhurst puts him clear of these although notable that he found little when asked for his effort on season return (heavy); Given one last chance back on sounder surface.

Imperial Rome: Taking a deserved step up in grade after smashing his rivals up at Dundalk the last twice, comfortably winning maiden and bolting up off mark of 90 in decent affair last time; Can give this good shot but has it much harder here.

Oracle: Looked as if he could be useful sort when bumping into Group winner at Newmarket nearly a year ago but not progressed since (despite winning) and looks outclassed here.

Zabrajad: Improved for step up in trip when staying on second behind Robin Hood and Pathfork in above average maiden, and while he can improve physically, guess is that he needs a step up in trip to show best.

Peahen: Won at Dundalk second time out and ran with credit behind Cyrsathemum in listed event, so disappointing that she was so far behind her in Group 3 event next time; Well beaten on comeback and others look more solid.

VERDICT: With a seasonal reappearance under his belt and faster ground to his liking, GLOR NA MARA is given a final chance to pick up a belated maiden win. Alexander Pope is seen as the main threat, stepping back to a more suitable distance than latest, while Imperial Rome is respected stepping up in class.