 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |  |
Whistlejacket, trained by Aidan O’Brien, secured a place in the Royal Ascot by winning the Listed-class Gain First Flier Stakes at the Curragh.
Despite finishing second to Cowardofthecounty, Joseph O’Brien's horse, over six furlongs on debut last month, Whistlejacket displayed an impressive performance at the minimum trip.
The full-brother of Little Big Bear, the champion 2YO, comfortably defeated three previous winners. Whistlejacket, with Ryan Moore on board, raced alongside Arizona Blaze, the main market rival, for most of the race. However, at the two-furlong pole, it became evident Ryan Moore's mount was travelling much better. Whistlejacket accelerated quickly to win by three and three-quarter lengths.
O’Brien said, “He’s a fast horse, he’s progressing nicely. I’d say five or six (furlongs) will be no problem, he has plenty of speed for five anyway. The last day it was six, but he’s not short of speed. I don’t think he will (run again before Ascot), he’s had two runs. You never know, but I don’t think so.”
In the meanwhile Barnavara, the daughter of Calyx, was not backed for success until much later. Despite the delay, she performed remarkably well, winning the race with ease for trainer Jessica Harrington and owners Alpha Racing.
Jockey Shane Foley rode her towards the near side and caught the attention of many with his impressive display.
“She was up here the other morning on the Curragh on softish ground, the first time we had her on grass, and we were delighted with her," said Mrs Harrington
“Shane said she was grand over six furlongs and she would probably like better ground.
“She might have another run and then go to Ascot for the Albany.
“We’ll see how she comes out of that but she won very easily.