Russian Soul pictured winning at Dundalk last year© Photo Healy Racing
Every drop of rain inspires Gary Moore with confidence for Dutch Masterpiece as he tackles Group company for the first time in the Flying Five Stakes at the Curragh.
The three-year-old sprinter needs good ground or softer to bring out the best in him, which is why he has not seen since winning the second of two handicaps in June at Newmarket.
Moore believes Dutch Masterpiece has improved since then and is looking forward to the five-furlong dash.
"He's got a nice draw (13) and he went out there in great heart. This is a bit of unknown territory now, but I'd be hopeful of a big run," said the West Sussex trainer.
"I think he's come on in the time since he last ran. His home-work says he has and there's no reason to doubt that.
"The ground is the big thing with him. He definitely wants good ground or softer. They had a couple of millimetres (or rain) overnight on Thursday and every bit helps."
A powerful British contingent also includes the Michael Bell-trained filly Hoyam She has been highly tried on several occasions and ran respectably on her latest outing when fifth to Tickled Pink in the Coral Charge at Sandown.
"She's in very good order. It looks a tough race, but she travelled over there well and we're hopeful of a good run," said Bell. Russian Soul is one of the leading home contenders, having equipped himself with credit on many occasions, including on this track when runner-up to Slade Power in the Sapphire Stakes at May.
The five-year-old, who also ran well in Dubai during the winter, gained a well-deserved Listed success at Tipperary two weeks ago.
"He won nicely last time, he's very consistent and he's run well at the Curragh before," said trainer Michael Halford.
"He's a little bit wider than ideal where he's drawn (three), but I'm expecting a big run from him. His form reads well."
