Baobei impressive in Excelebration Tipperary

We got a performance from Yulong Baobei (the well-backed 11/10 favourite) in keeping with the Listed status of the Excelebration Tipperary Stakes as Michael Halford's juvenile filly prevailed by no less than three and a quarter lengths in the hands of Shane 'Dusty' Foley.

A showing such as this from the chestnut daughter of Choisir, a Dundalk maiden victor, was a possibility given her second placing to the now retired Cuff in a Listed event at Naas. She then finished seventh in the big-field Windsor Castle at Royal Ascot.

Here always up there in the pace-setting role, Yulong Baobei was asked for more a furlong out and she kept on strongly in the final furlong to account for Swish

"She was really professional and is an out-and-out sprinter. She jumped smart, travels, naturally knows her job and is a strong mature filly," said Halford.

"She'll have a break and I'm not in a great rush with her. There aren't any two year old five furlong races for her in Ireland so might have to travel with her.

"Shane got her to relax at halfway and said she was really good today.

"She is an exciting filly and I'm delighted for her owner (Chinese national Zhang Yuesheng) who has five two year olds with us and has horses all over the world. He knows his horses and will be patient with her."

(TW & EM)