Portage set for Ascot after Listed success

Portage is set for a trip to Royal Ascot after stepping up to score at Listed level in the TRI Equestrian Silver Stakes at the Curragh.

Michael Halford 's charge was well backed 7/4 favourite (5/2 this morning) and responded well when asked for an effort turning for home by Shane Foley.

The Godolphin colt claimed front-runner General Macarthur a furlong-and-a-half from home and kept on well in the closing stages to hold the fast finishing Chemical Change by a length.

“We always thought he'd be suited by a step up to ten furlongs and he loved the ground,” said Halford.

“It was a nice race for him and it worked out well. He got towed into it well and we'll see where that takes us now.

“He's in the Hunt Cup and also has the option of the Wolferton. I'll talk to John (Ferguson) and see what he thinks.

“He can go asleep in his races and always needs a wake up call. Shane said when he took a hold of him he took off.”