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Punchestown 2024
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Canary claims opener
Canary Row and Niall McCullagh
© Photo Healy Racing
Canary Row produced a game front-running performance to justify his short price in the opening three-runner juvenile race at Tipperary.
Niall McCullagh popped the 4/5 favourite out in front from the off but the three contenders were locked together two furlongs out. Verbal Honesty looked a big danger as Canary Row came off the bridle a furlong-and-a-half out.
Patrick Prendergast 's son of Holy Roman Emperor stuck to his guns well inside the final furlong, however, to settle matters and record a two-and-a-three-quarter-length victory.
The winner had been a promising second on his debut at the Curragh when he had the other runner here and subsequent winner, Dylanbaru behind.
"He's actually a six or seven furlong horse. He probably has no business running in a five furlong race at Tipperary but he's tough and hardy," said Prendergast.
"He'll get an entry in the Marble Hill Stakes (5f Listed 26th May Curragh) but would only run there if it's soft as he needs further.
"My two-year-olds are in good nick. There won't be many more three-runner two-year-old races in Tipperary."
(GC & TW)