O'Brien doubles up with Shadowed

Shadowed completed a double for Joseph O’Brien on the opening day of the Irish Flat turf season at the Curragh when taking the Goffs London Sale (C&G) Maiden.

The Caravaggio gelding was placed on all three outings last year and was well-backed on track from 7/1 into 4/1 to open his account.

Shane Crosse ’s mount was prominent throughout and travelled strongly in the centre of the track before edging left when asked for his effort in the final furlong.

He kept on well in the closing stages to beat Something Nice by two-and-a-quarter lengths with Play It Again Zaam a further two and a half lengths adrift in third.

O’Brien said, “He had some smart runs in maidens last year and we felt he didn't handle Dundalk the day he went up there.

“He travelled well today and quickened up well. It was a nice performance.

“He's rated 84 so he could potentially go into a handicap somewhere.

“He was gelded over the winter, the owners felt it would be wise to do and I'd say it was. He looks a nice horse for this season.”

The Carriganog trainer was also on the mark earlier in the fillies maiden with Honey Girl

Quotes by Gary Carson