A Boy Named Susie takes full advantage of drop in class

A Boy Named Susie made the most of having his sights lowered with a dominant victory in the Newbridge Silverware Royal Whip Stakes at the Curragh.

Donnacha O’Brien’s colt has been unfortunate to bump into several Ballydoyle stars since his debut victory at Killarney, chasing home Derby winner Christmas Day twice, Irish Derby hero Benvenuto Cellini once, Pierre Bonnard once and Constitution River on three occasions, most recently when filling the runner-up spot in the-Eclipse at Sandown in July.

The son of Starspangledbanner was presented with what with a gilt-edged opportunity to record a second career win back on home soil at Group Three level and so it proved as he dispatched of his three rivals with the minimum of fuss in the hands of Oisin Murphy, quickening five lengths clear of the front-running Charles Fort to score at odds of 1-7.

O’Brien said: “It was horrific to watch! That was just what we wanted, he quickened up nicely and put it to bed. Oisin was very happy with him. Everything went exactly how we wanted.

“I thought he was quite impressive today. I know he beat horses that he’s much better than, but he quickened up very well.

“Oisin felt like he was improving and said he gave him a very good feel. We’re very pleased.”

When asked if the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown was likely to be his next objective, the trainer added: “I think so, I think it makes sense. Oisin is pretty confident that 10 furlongs is his trip for now. He’s got a turn of foot, which I think will suit Leopardstown.

“We’ll see how is obviously when he gets home, but I’d say that’s probably most likely.”