Miss Qatar represents Jim Bolger © Photo Healy Racing
The At The Races EBF Birdcatcher Premier Nursery at Naas is always a sought after prize and with a strong field of 17 set to do battle, this year's renewal of the long-standing sprint is no exception.
All the top teams are represented in the 50,000 euro event. Ballydoyle have two runners, Jim Bolger the same, whilst smaller operators with dual representation are Ken Condon and Andy Slattery.
In the colours of Mubarak Al Naemi, Al Mohalhal carried the day in this contest a year ago for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning. History could repeat itself as the owner, trainer and jockey join forces again, this time with Miss Qatar
The Dark Angel filly is taken to add to a recently achieved maiden win. If the ground deteriorates, as seems likely due to the amount of rain forecast, it should not unduly concern connections and supporters of Miss Qatar.
Testing ground wasn't a problem for her when scoring nicely at Fairyhouse. She can see off stable companion, Oh Grace (Ronan Whelan), and the rest.
It might not end there for Al Naemi, Bolger and Manning, as their Lightning Bullet looks strong in the concluding Profile Systems Naas October Handicap.
What he lacks in experience could be made up for in talent, as the three-year-old New Approach colt created a lasting impression when winning at the first time of asking in a Leopardstown one-mile-five-furlong maiden in August.
If Bolger does manage to land this good prize, he'll be following up on a win for the Coolcullen team in the same event in 2015, with the Godolphin-owned, and Rory Cleary-ridden Robertstown.
The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Auction Race is another valuable purse up for grabs. Noivado would seem to be a leading hope for the 100,000 euro contest. Ger Lyons' colt has to prove himself over seven furlongs, but he is a very smart course winner and is part of a strong three horse challenge from the Glenburnie yard
Lyons also has Hansian Prince and Mack Attack in there pitching.
