Blairmayne and Wayne Lordan (right) hold off Iva Batt © Photo Healy Racing
Blairmayne repeated his victory of 12 months ago when running out a game winner of the Best Of Luck To Our Neighbours Punchestown Handicap at Naas this evening.
The Natalia Lupini-trained gelding was also recording his fourth victory at the Kildare venue.
Wayne Lordan had his mount prominent in the near side group in the race, run over just shy of six furlongs, and asked him to tackle front-runner Shoebox King who raced on the far side, at the two pole.
The veteran got on top inside the final furlong but then had to hold the late charge of Iva Batt close home to record a head success.
Blairmayne, sent to post an 11/1 shot, was making his seasonal debut and had done most of his winning on better ground.
“He’s been a legend for the yard. He runs fresh and well this time of the year,” said Lupini.
“The ground today was a bit of a concern and he never won on soft ground before but he was in such tremendous form at home that we had to take the chance.
“Wayne as usual gave him a brilliant ride.
“He got a winter break and this time of year is always fresh and well of himself. Hopefully we can give him a break in mid-summer and try and keep him sweet.
“He’s a ten-year-old so doesn’t owe anybody anything. He loves Naas as well.
“We have him in at Cork so hopefully we’ll get in the seven furlongs Premier Handicap (on May 5th) with a win under his belt. He was second there last year.
“If he goes in that form then he should have a good chance.”
(Quotes by Alan Magee)
