IT'S THE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Karl Hedley looks at Ireland's young speedsters ready to fly the flag on the Flat

- Karl Hedley

Cheltenham, Aintree, Fairyhouse and Punchestown have all come and gone and it now seems appropriate to focus on possible contenders for the upcoming Flat season.

There are many top-class races on the agenda ahead of the first Classic meeting of the season at the Curragh and beyond over the next six months. I have compiled a list of 12 Irish horses that it should pay to follow over the weeks and months ahead, a few of which may well have gone under your radar.

A LILAC ROLLA (3YO filly) PADDY TWOMEY

A Lilac Roll is a Harry Angel filly who triumphed over the well-regarded Opera Singer in their encounter last summer over seven furlongs, despite the Ballydoyle runner having had two prior runs. A Lilac Rolla, guided by jockey Billy Lee, showcased her tenacity in securing victory when it mattered most. The Dermot Weld-trained Red Viburnum, trailed in third by only half a length and it further emphasizes the strength of her victory.

Red Viburnum later finished in fifth place behind Fallen Angel and Vespertilio in the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes, adding to the credibility of A Lilac Rolla's form. Paddy Twomey, the trainer of A Lilac Rolla, known for his astute horse acquisitions, has acquired a gem in this half-sister to the Listed-placed sprinter Mutaaqeb, purchased for a mere 40,000 Euros.

With an undefeated track record, it is intriguing to speculate on A Lilac Rolla's potential for remaining so. She remains a highly talented filly and she can make an immediate impact when she returns to the fray.

AL RIFFA (4YO colt) JOSEPH O'BRIEN

Trained by Joseph O'Brien, AI Riffa demonstrated his class by clinching victory in the prestigious Group 1 National Stakes as a two-year-old. Despite facing numerous setbacks last season, this son of Wootton Bassett has the potential to make a strong comeback.