Poet Master's Minstrel Stakes rivals under Sam James

Karl Burke took another big prize back across the Irish Sea when Poet Master proved far too good for the home team in the featured Group 2 Romanised Minstrel Stakes at the Curragh.

Burke, who sent out Fallen Angel to win the Irish 1000 Guineas in May, was at it again as the Sam James partnered 7/2 chance claimed the main race on the day.

Always to the fore just off leader I Am Superman James led two furlongs out, staying on strongly to beat Lord Massusus by three-and-three-quarter lengths. Mountain Bear was the disappointment of the race, slowly away and never passing a rival.

Paddy Powers went 12/1(from 25) Poet Master for the Lennox Stakes.

Sam James said: “Karl and I know that he just didn't fire the last day in Haydock, I'm not sure why.

“He was impressive at Newmarket when he won the time before that and beat a good horse of David O'Meara's (Misty Grey).

“It was a great training performance to get him back, freshen him up and bring him all the way over here for what looked like a competitive Group 2. He won very well.

“He's still maturing this horse, he can be a bit difficult to switch off but Seamie (Heffernan) has gone a nice gallop in front and I was able to use him as a guide.

“They went a lovely gallop and it suited me perfectly, I was able to get him switched off in behind Seamie. I got to the front maybe sooner then ideal but I knew all he would do is keep galloping all the way to the line.

“He's maturing all the time. Even going to post he was a bit fresh and keen but now he's starting to learn his job and he's going to keep improving. He could even be a better horse next year.”

James was formerly apprenticed to Kevin Prendergast on the Curragh and added:-

“Everyone has been really good to me and I've really enjoyed coming back for the last two days.

“It's really nice to get a winner and I appreciate that off Karl and the owner. I heard Kevin is not the best at the minute and everyones thoughts are with him as well in hospital.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson.