Pride Of Pimlico and Ronan Whelan prevail© Photo Healy Racing
Pride Of Pimlico knew his job well from the front and he got the turf Flat season off to a great start for trainer Brendan Duke in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Naas. Engles Rock (20/1) finished off well for second place but she was still two lengths adrift of 20/1 shot Pride Of Pimlico (Ronan Whelan up) at the line.
Duke's former employer and great mentor Jim Bolger supplied the third home, Son Of Beauty That 5/4 market-leader was half a length back.
"He must be a really good colt. He's done miles and miles of cantering but we've never revved the engine," said Duke.
"I was horrified by the carry-on of him beforehand, I can't believe that. He'll be getting the courtesy for boys and girls book in the morning, if I can't get one in Easons today.
"He's definitely talented and loved the ground. He's from a good family, that's four from four for the mare and she won five herself, including twice as a two-year-old.
"When I give ten grand for one they really need to be group horses. He'll progress and we'll take our time with him.
"Today was a big day for him. I'm a bit disappointed with the before race carry-on but I think he's a very nice horse and he never galloped until today.
"Ground definitely helped because he was very fit. It's a great tribute to the lads at home and how hard they've worked.
"If racing could stop now I'd be leading trainer for a week."
(GC & EM)
