Blairmayne uses experience to see off his rivals

Blairmayne bounced back to form with a vengeance when making all in the extended five furlong handicap in Naas.

The 20/1 shot was away well from the stalls and travelled strongly for Wayne Lordan passing the halfway stage.

He came off the bridle at the two pole and was ridden over a furlong out. The nine-year-old gelding was game off the front and fended the field off as he came in by a length and a quarter. Additional on first start for Sarah Lynam, was an eye-catcher in second at 14/1. Big Gossey (morning price 33/1 - 11/1 SP) completed the placings in third.

Blairmayne has now won seven times and earned over €160,000 in prize money.

Trainer Natalia Lupini said: “The last day he wasn’t beaten too far on his first outing of the year. He improved at home and was in good form today.

“He seems to love the track and Wayne gave him a brilliant ride. It’s great for a nine-year-old to come out and do that.

“When he gets a bit warm beforehand, that is usually a good sign.

“He’s in a Premier Handicap over seven furlongs at Cork on May 6 but Wayne thinks he’s still better over six. Cork is an easy seven so we’ll see.

“We can also aim him at Premier Handicaps like the Scurry and Bold Lad later in the year.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee