Review LEOPARDSTOWN 14-MAY-2000

Sinndar is on course for the Epsom Derby after defying a 7lb penalty for a battling head victory over Bach in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial Stakes.

The Aga Khan was on hand to greet his Grand Lodge colt who headed pacemaker Shayadi 1/4m out, and gamely held the challenge of Bach in the final furlong.

'He is very tough and genuine, and is crying out for a longer distance,' said trainer John Oxx afterwards.

Bookmaker reaction was mixed with Paddy Power offering 25/1 about an Epsom triumph, while the Aga Khan's colt is as low as 12/1 elsewhere.

Oxx and John Murtagh followed up with Anzari in the Listed Amethyst Stakes, produced between horses in the final 100 yards to beat Jammaal by a neck.

'He needs fast ground, and will come back here for the Ballycorus Stakes (June 14),' said Oxx.

Preseli maintained her unbeaten record with a hard-earned victory, also under a 7lb penalty, in the 1,000 Guineas Trial (Listed).

Eddie Ahern had the Caerleon filly up with the pace throughout, leading over a furlong out but just holding Storm Dream by a short-head.

Winning trainer Michael Grassick said: 'I'd expect her to come on from that run, and she will strengthen up during the season.'

'She is bred to stay 12f, and the plan at this stage is the Irish 1,000 Guineas, followed by the Pretty Polly Stakes and the Irish Oaks,' added Grassick.

Storm Dream's connections, Kevin Prendergast and Stephen Craine, went one better in the finale where Dutch Harrier was driven clear inside the final furlong.

David Wachman opened his account for the Flat season when Ascension (Seamus Heffernan) led close home to take the 2yo auction maiden.

'I have ten two-year-olds in training, and this filly really wants a bit further. She will probably come back here later in the year for a 7f Listed race,' said Wachman.

King Of Russia made most and rallied well in the final furlong for Michael Hussey (putting up 3lb overweight) to beat the staying on Dippers (5/2-15/8f) by 1L in the 6f handicap.

'He was sold to go to Hong Kong last year but the deal fell through,' said trainer Eddie Lynam, who will bring the 3yo back here in ten days time.

Piranesi (Fran Berry) led before the furlong pole but needed to be driven out to hold Forrestfield by a head in the 12f handicap.

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