The Harvest Festival from Listowel is back for another year with several highlights to look forward to over the next seven days, notably the Guinness Kerry National on Wednesday. Johnny Ward shares his bet for day one ahead of all the action live on Racing TV.
Galway races, said John B Keane, is a state of mind.
John, of course, had a pub in Listowel – I am sure he had plenty to say and write about his home festival.
Frankie Dettori couldn't make it this year but many will; here is one bet on day one, which is tricky.
This mare kicked off over two miles and a quarter on debut at Sligo last month and occupied last place, running fresh, but her rider allowed her to stride on and to the extent that she was leading and travelling well coming out of the back straight.
Phildante understandably faded after, but it was still a promising start and this is not a deep bumper by any means. She should have no issue staying once she settles: the dam won over two and three-quarter miles (and ran well at Listowel).