Arnaman up and running for Condon Arnaman overwhelmed Izzari to scoop the first prize in the three-year-old maiden over seven furlongs at Headquarters. The race lost some of its lustre when Aidan O'Brien's newcomer John Steinbeck was ruled out on veterinary advice. Just the four horses went to post and there was a difference in opinion as front-running Izzari kept to the far rail while his three rivals came down the centre of the track. Izzari was still boxing away for Hugh Horgan, but were vulnerable to a stalking Arnaman and Billy Lee who got to grips with them inside the final furlong. Arnaman, the 11/10 favourite, went on by a length from Emerald Eclipse at the winning post. Arnaman had finished second in a decent Dundalk maiden in March for Matthew Quinn and was making his stable debut for Ken Condon. He also was gelded ahead of this assignment and ran in a first-time tongue-strap. “There was only a few runners and the way the spread out Billy just went for the better strip of ground,” said Condon. “He had his first run in Dundalk and we found the same as the previous connections, that top of the ground would suit him best. “We're happy to get that done. Billy picked the best of the ground, he mightn't have been in love with it but got the job done. “It was workmanlike but he showed a bit of resolution. Billy said he'd be better with a lead as well. It was only his second start and we're delighted that he did that in the new colours. “Ultimately, he'll join Robert Siong's team in Hong Kong - that's what he was bought for. They don't usually export horses until sort of August-time so whether he runs in the meantime, they'll talk among themselves and see what they want to do. “Billy said seven on top of the ground would be as far he'd like to go and if he was to run on that ground again six would be far enough.” Additional reporting by Gary Carson
