Henri Matisse in the Guineas mix after winning return Henri Matisse put himself in the classic picture when making a successful reappearance in the Ballylinch Stud ‘Red Rocks’ Stakes at Leopardstown. The Wootton Bassett colt, who won four times last year and was last seen landing the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Del Mar, was given a patient ride by Ryan Moore. Arizona Blaze set the pace in this seven-furlong Group 3 event and was only collared in the closing stages as Henri Matisse challenged between horses. The 6/4 favourite got the better of Commanche Brave by half-a-length, with the front-running Arizona Blaze dropping back to finish a further half-a-length away in third. Winning trainer Aidan O’Brien said, “He wants to get there late and when he gets there, he waits. “He did well because it was a good gallop and he’s going to improve fitness wise. You would have to be happy with him. “Ryan said he was a little bit shocked as our horses are only doing half-speeds at home. On the quick ground they went a good gallop and Ryan said he’d definitely be more comfortable going up to a mile. “We couldn’t let them all go to the Guineas first time out so that’s we had to start them earlier. “He’s obviously a very smart horse and does quicken very well. He’ll improve plenty.”
