Shay strikes again for Lupini
Cousin Shay and Leigh Roche
© Photo Healy Racing
Cousin Shay saw out the extended ten furlongs at Dundalk well to bag a quick follow-up win at the track, giving jockey Leigh Roche a double on the card.
The Cotai Glory gelding had won over a mile on Friday and took his record to three wins from four runs since joining trainer Natalia Lupini.
He pulled his way to the front after a couple of furlongs but the 11/10 favourite had enough up his sleeve in the closing stages to post a half length win over Deed Pole
The winner was 3lb well in under his 7lb penalty having been raised 10lb for his recent success.
Lupini said: "It was a very good ride - he kept it simple and positive, and that was what we had in mind tonight.
"We were hoping, obviously, that he was going to stay. At the same time, last week, it looked like an extra two furlongs wouldn't be a problem.
"He seems to be going in the right direction. Leigh thinks there might be a good race in him, so hopefully he is right.
"Leigh thought he was a little bit keen, but then he came back on the bridle and travelled lovely.
"He is happy and over the weekend he ate up, and we were happy to run him again tonight.
"The grass on good ground shouldn't be a problem for him going forward. We will consider that and hopefully he will keep improving."
Roche had also won on Fly To Glory earlier on the card. It maintained a perfect start to 2025 for Lupini who has saddled three winners from three runners this year.
(Quotes by Michael Graham)