Speak In Colours, left, sees off Downforce© Photo Healy Racing
Speak In Colours gave jockey Shane Crosse his first Group-race victory in the AES Renaissance Stakes.
The 6/5 favourite made headway to lead a furlong and a half out and kept on well to see off Downforce who looked a significant threat at the furlong pole.
Downforce (20/1) couldn't quite get on terms, though, and was outgunned in the closing stages by a length and a quarter in this Group 3.
Joseph O’Brien said: “It was a good performance. Obviously he was ahead on ratings but the second horse (Downforce) is very good on soft ground. Shane gave him a lovely ride.
“He’s in the Foret next week so there is a chance he might go there if he comes out of this okay.
“He’s won on all types of ground and seems very versatile. He’d nearly a career best when fourth in Ascot and that was good and quick.
“He’s a great horse to have as he’s very solid and runs his race over six or seven furlongs.”
Shane Crosse added: “That’s my first Group-race winner. A big thanks must go to Joseph and it’s great to get the opportunity.
“He’s a lovely, relaxed type. I probably got there a bit soon but when Billy(Lee)’s horse came to me he kept going well.”
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
