Dartan and Derek O'Connor © Photo Healy Racing
German import Dartan got off the mark in Ireland today, landing Dundalk's View Restaurant At Dundalk (QR) Handicap for trainer Matthew Smith and top amateur jockey Derek O'Connor.
The son of Reliable Man won his maiden at Cologne in June 2020 and today, on his fourth Irish run, beat runner-up Top Line Tommy by a length and three parts.
It was ten years since O'Connor's only previous course winner on Tribes And Banner and afterwards winning trainer Smith reported “the last night I don't think he liked the bit - he acted up and he hung. He acted out of character and he just didn't put it all in.
"I knew if he ran how he worked he'd be there or thereabouts.
"He could be one for a nice staying handicap over the summer off a light weight - options are open now as he stays two miles well. He's a very straightforward horse and Derek (O'Connor) was delighted with him.
"He'll go on summer ground, even a bit of summer soft wouldn't be a problem with him.
"He's a good big strong horse and there's plenty of options over hurdles as well."
Quotes from Michael Graham
