Irish Champions Stakes Betting Preview Part 3

Al Kazeem was in the middle of a dream season when Declaration of War put an end to his four race winning streak that he had strung together. You do have to wonder whether the extra half a furlong was too much for Declaration of War in that last race as he just wasn’t able to conjure up the type of finishing kick that had delivered victories in his previous contests. There is a lot to like about him going back to a basic 1m2f but Roger Charlton’s five-year-old must get things back on track if he’s going to be challenging for serious honours in through the end of the season. 

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Punters will find Al Kazeem trading as the 3/1 third choice in a very competitive market between the three key contenders. 

Kingsbarns was unable to take part in the classic series after winning the Racing Post Trophy last year and finishing up the 2yo season as the stand-out selection going a classic distance of ground. Connections are certainly flashing lots of confidence with this one going into a Group 1 to kick off the three year old campaign against older colts as well. 

Kingsbarns trades at a 6/1 price and could very well wind up bossing the race but you have to wonder about the fact that there is another Coolmore contender in here looking to pick up the spoils. If things come down to a duel at the finish between Declaration of War and Kingsbarns you will have to tip your hat to the Magniers and Mr. O’Brien. 

Trading Leather is the key potential spoiler here and it’s interesting that he trades at such an enticing price. With an 11/2 listing with most major bookmakers, Trading Leather looks set to potentially get things back on track after a pair of second place finishes. He was only beaten by a length and a bit against Declaration of War last time out and was well-beaten by Novellist at Ascot at the end of July. Prior to that, he showed real potential at the Curragh to capture the Group 1 Irish Derby against a talented group of three-year-olds. 

There is a lot to like about his chances and his exchange price could be the real deal if punters stay lukewarm on him.