Blairmayne gets up late to land spoils

Blairmayne lunged late to land the spoils in a bunch finish to the TRM Stride Handicap at the Curragh.

The Zebedee gelding was recording his fifth career victory for trainer Natalia Lupini and his second at the Curragh in the six furlong contest. Ducky Mallon was sent for home over a furlong from home in the 24-runner contest but Shane Foley got a good tune from Blairmayne in the closing stages as he nabbed him near the line for a head victory.

There was a further head back to Miss Jabeam in third while Fridtjof Nansen was a neck behind in fourth.

“He's done very well and we're all very pleased,” said Lupini.

“He was in good form and we were positive coming here. He was a bit unlucky the last time in Leopardstown when he didn't get any run and he did well today.

“He loves the Curragh and Shane gave him a brilliant ride, he knows him well.

“He's so tough and honest and always runs his best. It's great to have a horse like that in the yard.”