Universally gets off the mark under Hayes

After a few promising efforts lately, Universally (15/2) made the breakthrough in the GAIN The Advantage Series Handicap. 

Dropped out from a wide draw by Chris Hayes, the grey was travelling well but waiting for racing room in mid-division early in the straight.

A gap opened at the furlong pole and the son of Acclamation, a brother to dual Group 3 winner Garrus, picked up well to lead over 100 yards out. He was driven out to score by three parts of a length and the same from Cavallo Pazzo and Queenie St Clair who both did good late work. 

“He's been knockingon the door and deserved it,” said Eoghan O'Neill who trains the winner for his wife Melissa. 

“Five furlongs was just a bit sharp for him last time but he was third and second over six. We tried five and it didn't work. Back over six, he loved it. 

“There is a race for him at the Curragh on October 7th, that's where he'll go next.” 

Quotes from Gary Carson