Algardi shows smart turn of foot

Alessandro Algardi quickened away in style to land the spoils in the Donate To The Coast To Curragh Cycle Maiden at Cork.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained gelding went to post a 6/5 shot this afternoon after a promising effort to finish fourth on his debut over six furlongs at the Curragh.

Stepping up to a mile today the son of Gleneagles was soon tracking leader Powerful Don before being sent to the front passing the two pole.

Shane Crosse drove his mount clear inside the final furlong and he was a cosy four-length winner at the line. Giuliana stayed on to pip long-time leader Powerful Don for the runner-up spot.

Assistant Brendan Powell said:- "It was a nice performance, it has taken a while. He went to the races last year and failed to go into the stalls and did the same at a barrier trial.

"Eamonn Kavanagh, from Aidan O'Brien's, has taken him down the last twice now and has helped out a lot with him.

“He was a little difficult to load last time but went straight in today and Shane said he jumped out smart and quickened up well.

"Joseph always liked him and the team at home have done a lot of work with him.

"He gets the mile well, you'd stick him to a mile now but I'm sure he will be farther in time. He is a big strong horse, has learned a lot from his first run and he has a good mind."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)