Flight Risk dazzles in Ballycorus

As the rest huffed and puffed from the two furlong pole Kevin Manning minded his own business down the inner, and his mount Flight Risk ultimately ran out an impressive winner of the featured Group 3 Oliver Brady Memorial Shabra Charity Ballycorus Stakes.

It was an amazing sight to see in the Leopardstown highlight, how charmed a run Flight Risk got down the inner. It was also amazing to see how well the 12/1 chance travelled into contention from off the gallop. He struck on from under a furlong out to beat English raider Don't Touch by two and a half lengths.

Fellow British visitor Firmament was given a patient steer by Danny Tudhope. He could only muster one pace when required and the 7/4 favourite finished fifth of the seven.

"We always knew there was a big performance in this horse and there is probably better to come on days when everything goes right for him," said Jim Bolger of his Flight Risk, running for the first time since being gelded.

"That's the first time he's run well on that good ground and maybe he's hardening up. I'd say he could go a mile and he's even run well over six."

(GC & EM)