Waltz impresses in Roscommon opener

The David Wachman trained Last Waltz ran out a decisive winner of the opener at Roscommon, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Auction Race.

Third on her debut over five furlongs at Cork in May the daughter of Danehill Dancer was stepped up to seven furlongs today while she was also fitted with cheekpieces for the first time.

Settled in second behind the front-running Henshaw she travelled strongly to challenge from two furlongs out and soon led.

She was ridden clear over a furlong from home and kept on well from there, winning easily by three and a half lengths.

Billy Lee was aboard the winner who proved friendless with punters. She opened at 9/2 on-course before drifting out to 11/2 at the off.

Newcomer Reddot Roman kept on well to take second at 25/1 under Shane Foley for Mick Halford while fellow newcomer Camile also kept on well to take third a further two and a quarter lengths back under Pat Smullen for Jessica Harrington. Roibeard was sent off the well-supported 6/4 favourite (9/4 this morning) but he ran no sort of race and finished eighth under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons.

Billy Lee said afterwards: "She did it well. She jumped and travelled and got a good position from a wide draw. She travelled well all the way.

"Chris Hayes (on Henshaw) tried to quicken in front but when I gave my filly a squeeze she came on the bridle. She got a little lonely in front but ran well to the line and it was a good performance."

The Evie Stockwell owned winner cost E45,000 at Arqana in August of last year.

STEWARDS REPORT

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Roibeard, trained by G.M.Lyons, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson