Bubbly Bellini © Photo Healy Racing
The Racing Again June 14th Race is the highlight at Cork and despite attracting a field of just four, a decent heat is in prospect. Bubbly Bellini and Russian Soul quickly renew acquaintances, having finished third and 11th respectively behind Joe Eile at Navan on Sunday.
On these more favourable terms, the general expectation may be that Russian Soul will now reverse placings with Ado McGuinness' great old servant.
However, Bubbly Bellini has been there, done that when it comes to racing over sprint trips at Cork and has a good record here, including when finishing third in this race 12 months back behind Scream Blue Murder.
The Mull Of Kintyre gelding has since won over six furlongs here in October, and also took a 'silver medal,' over seven, at the track, last month.
Despite the lack of numbers, this contest won't be easily won, with the ratings showing as much. Bubbly Bellini is on a mark of 100, Russian Soul is on 104, Balmont Mast is assessed as a 98 performer, whilst My Good Brother is currently on a perch of 97.
There is a 7lb gap from top (Bubbly Bellini) to bottom (Balmont Mast) so race conditions are pitched in Russian Soul's favour, but Bubbly Bellini could just come out on top.
Whatever Bubbly Bellini's fate, Ado McGuinness can strike in the Cork Racecourse Handicap with Oor Jock
He's not yet ridden a racecourse winner, but champion pony racer Jack Kennedy seems poised to make a big impression and he can guide home Oor Jock here.
The County Kerry native's other mounts on the evening, Well Done Me (6.35) and Funny How (8.05), are well worth considering too.
Meanwhile the maidens could be best left to China Eyes (5.30), Laffina (7.35, cheekpieces now could help) and Variable (8.35).
