Whitecliffsofdover sets the standard as he bids for follow-up victory

Owenstown Stud Stakes | Listed | 3yo+ | 7f | ATR

The Aidan O'Brien-trained Whitecliffsofdover dominated from the front when winning the Free Handicap at Newmarket on his seasonal debut last month and, while he held an entry in the French Guineas, connections opted for this lesser assignment.

The War Front colt raced four times as a two-year-old, his only win coming over course and distance, and he sets a clear standard as he bids to record back-to-back wins.

O'Brien said: "We were very pleased with Whitecliffsofdover when he won at Newmarket and he's ready to go again. That was a handicap and he did it nicely. We're hoping he's improved again."

'Only narrowly beaten'

Jessica Harrington is represented by Marshall Jennings and Drumfad Bay.

She said: "Drumfad Bay ran a marvellous race in the Tetrarch Stakes here this month, when she was only narrowly beaten.

"Marshall Jennings also ran well last time, when he was beaten only a head at Leopardstown. Both are in there with an obvious chance."

Ger Lyons is also double-handed with Gymkhana and Reckless Endeavour, while Jim Bolger is represented by Radio Silence.

Radio Silence looked impressive when winning a Leopardstown maiden on debut last July but has yet to score in five subsequent starts and is wearing blinkers for the first time.

If the rain continues it should not inconvenience the Kevin Prendergast-trained Penny Pepper, who will not be on the track much longer as she is in foal to Dragon Pulse.