 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
Broadhurst, hailing from a different parish, proved his mettle on the renowned 'Sovereign Path' at Leopardstown, securing a remarkable four consecutive victories for the formidable duo of Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore.
Initially languishing at the back of the pack among 17 entrants, Broadhurst made a decisive move as they approached the final furlong and a half. Sensing the need for a change in strategy, Moore swiftly maneuvered him to the outside, hoping to gain some ground.
In a show of sheer determination, the formidable Dunum surged ahead at the furlong marker, creating a significant gap between himself and the chasing pack.
The race seemed all but decided as Dunum appeared to be cruising towards victory. However, Broadhurst, unleashing his full potential, shifted into top gear and powered down the outer track, closing in on Dunum with every stride.
In a breathtaking display of speed and stamina, Broadhurst overtook Dunum just before the finish line, winning with a margin of one length and a quarter. The favorite trailed behind in second place, while Kayhana secured a respectable third and No More Porter claimed fourth.
This remarkable achievement was not the only triumph for O'Brien and Moore that day. They also claimed victory with Diego Velazquez, who was the heavily favored 8/15, Auguste Rodin at 11/4, and Adelaide River at 11/8.
“We had him going to Ascot for the Britannia and then he got injured. Then he came back and he wasn't working well,” said O'Brien.
“We knew that he was on a very good mark, but he wasn't working well. Ryan rode him to feel his way. He gave him a chance, they went fast and when he straightened up he took off.
“After he ran in Naas we were very happy and he went lame for a while, so we had to get him back and he wasn't working the same way he was.
“Obviously, he went asleep, but he was in off a good mark. He did very well to win and he gave him a great ride. They went fast up front.
“I thought seven around there, and he was drawn wide enough, that it was going to be tough.”
On the day, he added, “ It's an incredible day really. For that to happen is very difficult and it's a lot of hard work by a lot of people. Ryan is riding unbelievable and it's a big team effort.”