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Punchestown 2024
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Michael Graham
O'Brien and Quartz a winning team
Quartz puts his rivals in their place at Gowran
© Photo Healy Racing
Donnacha O’Brien grabbed his second career victory on Quartz the horse that he won his first race on.
Quartz was sent off the 3/1 joint favourite for the extended mile and one rated race which closed out the card.
He bounced away smartly from the gate but was soon held up in fourth on the inside. Coming into the straight and O’Brien asked him to go closer. He was ridden into the lead under two furlongs out and stayed on well despite drifting across the track.
He took the honours by six lengths from Coolfighter (10/3) and a neck to Waydownsouth (10/1).
Aidan O’Brien said: “He did it well. He quickened up well and looked like he would get further. He took a little time to come to hand but is really getting it together.
“He might step up into a stakes race now and could go to the Curragh for a mile-and-a-half Listed race (Finale Stakes). He doesn't need to step up in trip but he wouldn't mind.”
This was a Gowran Park double for Aidan O’Brien who saddled Together Forever to win the opening maiden.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson