Bracelet, near side, races past Balansiya in Leopardstown © Photo Healy Racing
Balansiya carried a lofty reputation into the 1,000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown after she routed her rivals in a course and distance maiden last November, however, she was collared late home in today’s task by 7/1 chance Bracelet
Dermot Weld’s Balansiya went off the 9/10 favourite and appeared to be moving through to pick up the race from Avenue Gabriel in the home straight, but Bracelet delivered a powerful finish once Joseph O’Brien brought her through the field. She won this seven-furlong race by a length.
Paul Deegan’s Avenue Gabriel finished third at 5/1. She was beaten a length and a half by the winner.
Aidan O’Brien said: “She did it nicely. She’s a filly we think will stay well, probably in time. I’m delighted with her and everything being well she might go to the Guineas. She’s a good mover so you would think she would appreciate better ground.
When asked if she would get a mile and a half, O’Brien replied: “We always thought that she would, but Joseph wasn’t sure there. She showed a lot of speed. That’s why we are thinking of the Guineas. You would be more worried if they came in saying she wanted a mile and a half.”
This was Aidan O’Brien’s third win in the last four renewals of this trial, and his ninth success in it overall.
Montjeu filly Bracelet has possible engagements in the Irish 1,000 Guineas and the Irish Oaks. This was her first run for 290 days after her victory by a couple of lengths in a course and distance maiden in June last year.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
