Bright Stripes (Billy Lee, nearside) outpoints Norwalk Havoc (Shane Foley)© Photo Healy Racing
With the right man aboard to help save his energy until late on, Bright Stripes popped up at 16/1 under Billy Lee in the Listed Coolmore Stud Paddington Irish EBF Tetrarch Stakes at the Curragh.
Much to the delight of owner Paul Hardy and trainer Andy Oliver, the victorious chestnut put behind a disappointment when last on his return to action at Leopardstown last month, to beat Norwalk Havoc and disappointing 4/11 chance Samuel Colt by a length and half a length.
Whilst Bright Stripes was pliable enough to be delivered through from off the pace, fourth home Ecureuil Secret did himself no favours by failing to settle. In the circumstances he did well to be just another half a length off the principals.
“We were very concerned about ground as he’s such a good moving horse," admitted Oliver.
He added: "Last year we didn’t get anything else and his run in the Killavullan was on very heavy ground. This year on the first day out he encountered similar ground and just didn’t seem to like it at all.
“We expected the ground to dry out today but it didn’t and I thought long and hard about not running him today.
“Billy switched him off and he really accelerated. It just goes to show how much we really know! He was very impressive.
“The only day he got good ground was when he won his maiden at Naas.
“He’s in the Irish Guineas and all being well that is where he’ll go next. If he follows last year’s winner (Paddington) I’ll be happy enough with that!”
S. Foley, rider of Norwalk Havoc (GB), trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount hung left throughout.
The Raceday Stewards requested a report from A. Oliver, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Bright Stripes, placed first, as compared with its recent form. A. Oliver, trainer, stated that today's more favourable ground conditions may have helped to bring about the apparent improvement in form. Having considered the report, the Raceday Stewards noted the explanation offered.
(AM & EM)
