Intriguing Irish classic ahead

The first classic of the Irish flat season takes place today at the Curragh when 10 horses go to post for the 2,000 Guineas.

Aidan O'Brien saddles four - Flying The Flag Gale Force Ten George Vancouver and Magician

The latter is expected to be sent off favourite for the 300,000 euro contest at 3.20pm.

Magician is partnered by Joseph O'Brien and the Group 3 Dee Stakes winner is sure to be a warm order to give his handler his third Irish 2,000 Guineas in a row and ninth in all.

After being granted his training licence,Johnny Murtagh sends out Fort Knox and Ask Dad Murtagh rides Fort Knox who is owned by Sheikh Mohammed. He won the Listed 2,000 Guineas Trial Stakes at Leopardstown.

The English challenge is supplied by Richard Hannon, with Richard Hughes riding Van Der Neer who was third in the English 2,000 Guineas. Jamie Spencer is on Havana Gold Trading Leather bids to give Jim Bolger his first success in this race. Kevin Manning's mount was second in the Dante last-time out.