17:45 Dundalk Tips — Thursday 23rd April 2026

The 17:45 at Dundalk presents a fantastic opportunity for a promising individual to land another blow, and we are firmly behind **Stone Bear** (EVS). Ross O'Sullivan’s three-year-old colt comes into this contest in red-hot form, having secured a superb win last time out. That victory showcased his current well-being and battling qualities, marking him out as a horse firmly on an upward trajectory.

Crucially, Stone Bear stands out as the top-rated horse in the field with an Official Rating of 67. This class advantage is significant and often proves decisive in competitive handicaps. Furthermore, as a young three-year-old who has already shown he can win, there is undoubtedly plenty of scope for further improvement. With Siobhan Rutledge in the plate again, who knows the horse well, they form a potent partnership ready to capitalise on this favourable mark.

While EVS might seem short, his credentials fully justify the price. He ticks all the key boxes: proven form, class superiority, and untapped potential. We expect him to prove very difficult to beat. For those seeking an alternative, **Baby Basma** offers an appealing each-way option, capable of running into the frame.