Weights in Auction Maidens are calculated on the price paid at public auction for yearlings. It is rare indeed though to find a runner in one of these events that manages to combine a bargain base price with Listed Race place form.
Such a one is Tittle Tattle, who has only five rivals in the Percy French Maiden at Roscommon this evening. She was bought for 3,600 guineas and thus claims 5 lb as a filly and the maximum 12 lb sales allowance.
She won herself out through six placings in 11 juvenile starts, the best of her runs coming in the Listed Debutante Stakes where she was beaten three quarters of a length and a head by Photogenic and Viola Royale.
Flatley was placed last year, but were this a handicap he would be receiving 5 lb from Tittle Tattle, whereas he has to give 8 lb. At these weights she is a stand out nap.
Flatley's trainer, Michael O'Brien, should be among the jumping winners earlier in the evening with Shaihar. A far better hurdler than chaser to date, the small field and the likely slow pace should play into his hands.
Eddie Ahern has greater experience than the apprentices he comes up against in the Derrinstown Stud sponsorship and this can give an edge to the top weight Shastri, a cool and confident Downpatrick winner.
Norman Williamson may make it one from one when teaming up with Beneficent in the opening Londis Maiden Hurdle.
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