A Boy Named Susie belatedly returned to the winners enclosure for the first time since his debut success.
Connections have pitched him in deep since his Killarney win, proving no match for Constitution River next time out. It was a similar story behind Benvenuto Cellini, before a short head defeat to Derby winner Christmas Day.
He proved that was fluke when second in the Criterium, and he began this year in similar form. Behind Christmas Day in the Ballysax, he then ran a huge race for fourth in the French Derby. Again, he was behind Constitution River in the Eclipse, but it was still a career best effort.
Connections lowered their sights with him at the weekend, and he duly obliged in Group 3 company. Sat in second throughout under Oisin Murphy he asserted with relative ease late on, swooping by Charles Fort.
“Everything went exactly how we wanted” – Donnacha O’Brien
Speaking to the Press Association afterwards, via At The Races, O’Brien said: “It was horrific to watch! That was just what we wanted, he quickened up nicely and put it to bed. Oisin was very happy with him. Everything went exactly how we wanted.
“I thought he was quite impressive today. I know he beat horses that he’s much better than, but he quickened up very well. Oisin felt like he was improving and said he gave him a very good feel. We’re very pleased.”
A Boy Named Susie holds three entries, including the Irish Champion Stakes. When asked whether that was the plan, O’Brien said: “I think so, I think it makes sense. Oisin is pretty confident that 10 furlongs is his trip for now. He’s got a turn of foot, which I think will suit Leopardstown.
“We’ll see how is obviously when he gets home, but I’d say that’s probably most likely.”
The following race saw Armor Supreme land the odds for favourite backers in the Juvenile Sprint Stakes. Rossa Ryan made the journey for just the one ride, having rode her twice prior.
Speaking to the Press Association after, via Racing TV, trainer Diego Dias said: “It was great. Rossa said she is brave, she put the head down and tried very hard. After Ascot we gave her a little bit of break and there is a bit more to come from her.
“She needed this run, she got a couple of weeks off and is just back now. It was good to get her head in front there. She was a good second in York and had a good run in Ascot as well. I’m delighted with today.”