Heads Up

Trained by John C McConnell out of Stamullen in Co Meath, Heads Up is part of a yard that has been in fine form — 44 winners sent out this season alone, which tells you this isn't a quiet operation hoping for luck. McConnell's team clearly know how to place a horse, and Heads Up has rewarded that patience with two wins: the first at Punchestown in November 2024, the second at Listowel in September 2025.

The recent form makes for interesting reading. Across the last six races, Heads Up has a win, three runner-up finishes, and a second place further back — the horse is rarely far away. That kind of placing record often means a horse is doing everything right except getting to the front at the crucial moment, which can be frustrating but also suggests there's usually a performance there worth backing.

The one honest question mark is at the top level. In three races at Class 1 — the highest tier of competition — Heads Up is yet to win. That's not a disgrace; the best horses in training turn up there, and simply being placed at that level would be a solid result. The horse may be at its most dangerous one rung below, where it has already proved it can win.

After a 64-day break since last racing, Heads Up returns with a little freshness in its legs. Horses can come back sharper after a short rest, particularly when they've been competitive throughout their career. Whether the team target another win at a track like Listowel or test the waters at the top level again, this is a horse that tends to show up and run its race — and that's more than can be said for plenty of others.