Trainer Jim Bolger and jockey Kevin Manning combined for a double at Leopardstown today, when 14/1 shot Banimpire overturned 8/13f Recital in the Group 3 P.W. McGrath Memorial Ballysax Stakes.

Banimpire, who chased the leaders, had improved to lead a furlong out before staying on well for a half length win over Regent Street

Ballydoyle’s Recital was a warm order to maintain his unbeaten record but failed to settle under Ryan Moore. The ‘jolly’ was last entering the straight and while he had plenty to do from the two furlong pole, failed to pick up as expected, eventually finishing a never nearer third.

Afterwards Bolger stated “that wasn’t a big surprise as she had run a very good race at The Curragh the last day and we always felt she would stay this trip. We’ve a few options to start thinking about now but the Guineas is a definite option.”

Thomas Weekes