Michaelmas back to winning ways in finale

Michaelmas bounced back to form when making all for victory in the concluding Michael Higgins & Co Race at Naas.

The son of Elusive Quality was well-regarded early in his juvenile season but has struggled in pattern company this season.

Ana O'Brien gave the three-year-old a well judged ride and he responded well when asked for an effort a furlong-and-a-half from home.

The 9/4 shot kept on well in the closing stages to post a two length winning margin and gave the rider's father Aidan a hat-trick in recent renewals of the race.

Chance To Dance was sent off the 10/11 favourite to keep up his recent good run but he couldn't peg back the winner and eventually lost second to Bold Thady Quill late on.

“He loved that fast ground. He got the mile well and will probably get a mile-and-a-quarter,” said O'Brien senior.

O'Brien also revealed plans to run some of his string at Goodwood next week:-

“Venus De Milo will probably go for the Nassau Stakes while Eye Of The Storm will go for the two mile race (Goodwood Cup).

“We'll probably give Tapestry a bit more time and she could go to York.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)