The Classic action at a sun-drenched Gowran Park yesterday was quite modest in comparison to that at Newmarket but Quality Team may be aimed at the Italian Derby after taking the featured Glanbia EBF Classic Trial in workmanlike fashion.
Pat Smullen sent the Diesis colt to the front inside the final quarter mile, and he stayed on well to beat Lets Try Again by two and a half lengths. 'He could be a suitable candidate for the Italian Derby. There is usually plenty of pace in that race, and you need a horse that stays well,' said winning trainer Dermot Weld, who captured the Cappannelle classic with In A Tiff in the early 90's.
John Oxx supplied the disappointing favourite Three Clouds in the feature but was on the mark earlier with newcomer Islandagore in the Glanbia Day EBF Fillies Maiden (Division 1). The Indian Ridge filly out of Dancing Sunset, which provided Aidan O'Brien with his Group race win in the Royal Whip Stakes, was ridden up with the pace throughout by John Murtagh. She led two furlongs out, and was eased in the closing stages to beat Soorah by three quarters of a length.
'She is a nice filly, and won well,' said Oxx, who added: 'She is still a bit backward in her coat, and hopefully will progress from this. She is well entered up.'
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