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Punchestown 2024
Punchestown 2024
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- Sandro Botticelli illustrates his ability
Michael Graham
Sandro Botticelli illustrates his ability
Seamie Heffernan
© Photo Healy Racing
Aidan O'Brien had a winner in the finale at the Curragh but it was with 11/1 newcomer Sandro Botticelli who beat stablemate and 5/4 favourite Los Barbados into third. Time To Inspire (8/1) broke well under Pat Smullen and quickly moved to the head of affairs in this mile and a quarter maiden. Meanwhile, Sandro Botticelli was held up in sixth by Seamie Heffernan.
With two and a half to go, Sandro Botticelli made headway to chase Time To Inspire. His progress continued inside the two as he moved into third on the rail. With 200 yards left he reeled in Time To Inspire and forged on to score by three quarters of a length.
Aidan O'Brien said: "It's grand that he's won first time and hopefully he'll come forward. He's sleeping at home but is obviously better on the track."
Los Barbados finished fourth but was promoted to third as Aared was demoted to fourth. The stewards had called an enquiry into possible interference involving the pair and Morning mix who came in fifth.
Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that Aared had caused interference and in doing so had improved his finishing position in relation to Los Barbados. The Stewards therefore reversed the placings of the third and fourth placed horses and took no further action.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee