American sprint athlete competes in Ireland for the first time and Sean Bowen expected to excel at Worcester event
Racing Preview: Top Contenders and Key Runners at Worcester and Brighton
In the 2m7f handicap chase at Worcester, Ivane, ridden by Sean Bowen, is the standout contender for James Owen. The horse has shown impressive form since joining Owen from Ciaran Murphy, with a record of 21233. Ivane's jockey, Sean Bowen, will also be in the saddle for another horse, An Bradan Feasa, and will be joined by Miss Roisin Leech, who will ride Feeling Frisky.
Another horse to watch in the same race is Two Stars. This four-year-old has an impressive record, having won four races, finished second three times, and third once. It will be seeking a hat-trick after victories at the Curragh and Naas, with Joey Sheridan keeping the ride for both wins.
In the 2m bumper at Worcester, Siouxfonic, also trained by James Owen, makes a nice debut in Ireland. The horse's form in Ireland has worked out well, and it goes nicely at home.
At Brighton, Pop Dancer, a three-time winner at the track, will be looking to bounce back after a stumble at the start cost it all chance in its last race there. Tyrese Cameron claims 7lb for Pop Dancer, which could give it a much-needed boost.
Tony Carroll has five runners in the 6f handicap at Brighton, including Time Patrol and Pop Dancer. Time Patrol has won three of its six starts at Brighton, but its last three runs there have been less productive. Jack Doughty, who was in the saddle for Time Patrol's winning sequence at the track, will ride the horse again.
Carroll considers Tea Sea to be his best horse, but is unsure if it will have the best draw. Tea Sea, Under Curfew, and Port Hedland also run for Carroll in the same race.
Brian Toomey is two from two in handicaps for three-year-olds and older at Brighton this season, and saddles Flag Carrier in the mile handicap.
In the 2m4f mares' handicap hurdle at 5.40, Dave Roberts has a 60% strike-rate in handicap hurdles at Worcester this season. He sends out Stamina Chope in the race.
James Owen also saddles Siouxfonic in the 2m bumper at 3.10 and A Mere Bagatelle in the 2m4f handicap hurdle at 5.10. A Mere Bagatelle is fit from the Flat and makes its first run over hurdles for James Owen. The horse goes nicely at home, according to its trainer.
Sean Bowen has a 36% strike-rate when teaming up with James Owen, and he believes Ivane, with a fresh and well-rested feel, will run a good race in the 2m7f handicap chase at Worcester.
