RICHARD Hannon plans to have a runner in the €200,000 Irish EBF Gowran Classic on Monday, when admission will be free thanks to the Irish National Professional Bookmakers Association.

The centrepiece of the popular Smullen Series, the ‘Classic’ was introduced in 2024 to provide an opportunity over middle distances for EBF-eligible horses by a sire with a median price of €75,000 or less. The winner secured automatic free entry into the Irish Derby or Irish Oaks.

Among the 41 three-year-olds engaged in Monday’s race is the Hannon-trained Bunyola Bay. An €80,000 yearling by Ghaiyyath, Bunyola Bay finished third on his sole outing last season and won a seven-furlong maiden at Doncaster on his only start so far this year.

Last year’s winning trainer, Joseph O’Brien, is mounting a strong defence.Hardy Warrior is likely to set a high standard for the yard, with Perisher (winner of his last two races), Nil Bua Gan Dua (successful at Roscommon last time), and recent course winner Satoyama all holding decent form.

Free admission tickets must be secured in advance through the gowranpark.ie website.

Sunnyhill sires on fire

FIFTY Stars maintained his 100% strike-rate with his first runners when Vaheadi won over hurdles at Compiegne on Thursday. His first runner, Aquasina, won on the flat at Vannes last month. Fifty Stars stands at Michael Hickey’s Sunnyhill Stud in Kilcullen, alongside Masar, whose recent winners include Haydock listed scorer Dreamasar and he is also the sire of Newmarket 1000 Guineas third, Venetian Lace.