Benny Glynn, Author at SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/author/bennyglynn Sports News, Live GAA scores, GAA fixtures Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:25:20 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://i0.wp.com/www.sportsnewsireland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/sni-icon.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Benny Glynn, Author at SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/author/bennyglynn 32 32 229439223 Gordon Elliott Sets Ferocious Early Pace in Race for Irish Champion Trainer Crown https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/gordon-elliott-sets-ferocious-early-pace-in-race-for-irish-champion-trainer-crown https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/gordon-elliott-sets-ferocious-early-pace-in-race-for-irish-champion-trainer-crown#respond Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:23:21 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=32191 The year 2007 feels like a lifetime ago: just look how much has changed in the world since then. But in Irish National Hunt racing, one thing has remained constant: the complete dominance of Willie Mullins as the premier trainer over obstacles. The 2024/25 season is underway, with Mullins eyeing a 17th consecutive Champion Trainer […]

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The year 2007 feels like a lifetime ago: just look how much has changed in the world since then.

But in Irish National Hunt racing, one thing has remained constant: the complete dominance of Willie Mullins as the premier trainer over obstacles.

The 2024/25 season is underway, with Mullins eyeing a 17th consecutive Champion Trainer title – first won in 2007.

However, it’s his friendly rival – Gordon Elliott – that is setting the pace at the head of the standings…

Long Way to Go

There’s so much racing still to come in the National Hunt season, which rolls through until next April.

But Elliott will be hoping to use his early-campaign form as a springboard for success in the sport’s major festivals. The Cheltenham ante-post betting odds give him a strong chance, too: Teahupoo (9/4) and Irish Point (12/1) are expected to go well in the Stayers’ Hurdle, while Gerri Colombe (12/1) may be a contender in the Gold Cup after finishing second in the 2024 renewal.

The Cheltenham Festival results from last year also confirm Elliott’s wins with Stellar Story and Better Days Ahead, while hardy veterans Delta Work and Galvin will be expected to go well in the Cross Country Chase after its absence from the 2024 edition of the meeting due to a waterlogged track.


In addition to Gerri Colombe, Elliott also saddled four other runners-up at the March festival and five third-place finishers, so there’s plenty of strength in depth at his Cullentra yard.

And he will need all of those horses to come to the fore in 2024/25 if he is to wrestle the Champion Trainer trophy from the mantelpiece of Mullins, where it has sat gathering dust since 2007.

It’s testament to both his ability as a trainer and also his gift for attracting the best horses from the leading owners and breeders, so the rest of the Irish training community will need Mullins to have an off-year if they are to have any chance of upending his dominance.

For Elliott, at least he has started the 2024/25 season in fine fashion…

Fast Out of the Gate

The meat of the National Hunt campaign is still yet to get underway, but Elliott already has more than €800,000 (£685,000) in prize money to his name.

Much of that has been claimed from action at Galway, where Elliott has enjoyed a stellar time of things in July and into August.

The Wallpark landed a valuable handicap hurdle on August 3 at the venue, staying on well in a race ran at an electric pace – five of the 18-strong field being pulled up.
A day earlier, veteran chaser Battleoverdoyen rolled back the years, defying a four-year age gap to Moonovercloon to head off Matthew Smith’s horse by a nose – clinching a handsome £40,000 payday for his connections at the age of eleven.

Prior to that, in the Grade 3 Galway Plate on July 31, Duffle Coat made a mockery of his 25/1 odds to run a fantastic race – beating the well-fancied Perceval Legallois and former Cheltenham Festival contender Zanahiyr, but finishing in second place behind Pinkerton.

It’s been an excellent start to the campaign for Elliott; can he carry that form through the rest of the season?

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Ranking five of Coolmore’s greatest horses https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/ranking-five-of-coolmores-greatest-horses https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/ranking-five-of-coolmores-greatest-horses#respond Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:33:58 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31903 Coolmore Stud, one of the premier thoroughbred breeding operations globally, has produced some of the most legendary horses in the sport and plenty of favourites in the horse racing odds. From their exceptional performances on the track to their profound influence in the breeding shed, many of Coolmore’s horses have left a lasting mark on […]

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Coolmore Stud, one of the premier thoroughbred breeding operations globally, has produced some of the most legendary horses in the sport and plenty of favourites in the horse racing odds.

From their exceptional performances on the track to their profound influence in the breeding shed, many of Coolmore’s horses have left a lasting mark on the sport.

Here, we rank five of Coolmore’s greatest horses based on their achievements, legacy, and overall impact on the world of horse racing.

1. Galileo

Achievements:

Races Won: Galileo, sired by Sadler’s Wells, notably triumphed in the 2001 Epsom Derby, Irish Derby, and the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
Accolades: Named European Champion Three-Year-Old Colt in 2001 and 12-time leading sire in Great Britain and Ireland.

Legacy:

Galileo’s impact is monumental, extending well beyond his illustrious racing career. As a sire, he has produced numerous champions, including the undefeated Frankel, one of the greatest racehorses ever.

Galileo’s progeny have dominated major races worldwide, making him a cornerstone of modern thoroughbred breeding. His ability to consistently sire top-class horses has secured his place as one of the most influential sires in history.

2. Sadler’s Wells

Achievements:

Races Won: A three-time Group 1 winner, including the Irish 2000 Guineas.
Accolades: European Champion Miler in 1984.

Legacy:

Sadler’s Wells is the patriarch of Coolmore’s breeding empire. He topped the sire lists 14 times in Great Britain and Ireland.

His progeny includes multiple Group 1 winners and influential sires like the aforementioned Galileo and Montjeu.

Sadler’s Wells’ remarkable ability to pass on his talent has made him a linchpin in Coolmore’s breeding programme and a legend in the racing world.

3. Montjeu

Achievements:

Races Won: Winner of the 1999 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the Irish Derby, and the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
Accolades: Named European Champion Three-Year-Old Colt in 1999.

Legacy:

Montjeu’s prowess as a sire has greatly influenced the world of staying races. His progeny includes Epsom Derby winners such as Camelot, Motivator and Authorized, and St. Leger winner Leading Light.

Montjeu’s knack for siring horses with exceptional stamina has made him a critical figure in producing Classic winners, maintaining Coolmore’s reputation for excellence in breeding.

4. Camelot

Achievements:

Races Won: Camelot impressively claimed victories in the 2012 2000 Guineas, Epsom Derby, and Irish Derby.
Accolades: Named European Champion Three-Year-Old Colt in 2012.

Legacy:

Camelot’s racing career was nothing short of remarkable, narrowly missing out on the English Triple Crown.

As a sire, Camelot has produced Group 1 winners such as Latrobe and Even So, showing great promise in continuing his legacy through his offspring.

His influence in both middle-distance and staying races highlights his versatility and value to Coolmore’s breeding operations.

5. Australia

Achievements:

Races Won: Australia, another standout son of Galileo, achieved major wins in the 2014 Epsom Derby, Irish Derby, and the International Stakes.
Accolades: Named European Champion Three-Year-Old Colt in 2014.

Legacy:

Australia combines the best of his sire Galileo and his dam Ouija Board, herself a multiple Group 1 winner.

As a stallion, Australia has already made an impact with Group 1 winners like Galileo Chrome and Order of Australia.

His capability of passing on his elite genetics positions him as a vital part of Coolmore’s future breeding success, ensuring that the legacy of excellence continues.

Coolmore Stud’s reputation for producing exceptional racehorses is exemplified by the achievements and legacies of these five greats.

Galileo, Sadler’s Wells, Montjeu, Camelot, and Australia have not only excelled on the track, but also in the breeding shed, ensuring that their impact will be felt for generations to come.

These horses have set high standards in the world of thoroughbred racing and breeding, contributing significantly to Coolmore’s status as a leader in the industry.

 

 

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Video Replay – Mystical Power digs deep for Mullins’ https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-mystical-power-digs-deep-for-mullins https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-mystical-power-digs-deep-for-mullins#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:43:12 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31576 Mystical Power showcased his exceptional pedigree, battling to victory in the KPMG Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival. Mystical POWER 💪 Aintree winner Mystical Power comes home strongly to run down the game Firefox in the Grade 1 Champion Novice Hurdle and bag his second top-flight win. It's Mullins and McManus again! 🟢🟡⚪️@KPMG | […]

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Mystical Power showcased his exceptional pedigree, battling to victory in the KPMG Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival.

As the offspring of record-breaking stallion Galileo and Punchestown and Cheltenham Champion Hurdle winner Annie Power, the five-year-old demonstrated stellar form under champion trainer Willie Mullins.

Stablemate Ile Atlantique set the pace early on, but Firefox took the lead as they turned for home. The eye-catching Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner Slade Steel, ridden by Rachael Blackmore, closed in, while Mark Walsh guided Mystical Power to rally. Firefox briefly surged ahead near the last hurdle, but Walsh coaxed Mystical Power to a strong finish, justifying the 2/1 favorite odds. Firefox secured second place, while Slade Steel finished in third.

“He’s been improving all season,” Mullins remarked. “Mark said he was going as fast as he could going into the last bend, but then the race turned into a staying contest. Mystical Power outstayed the competition with a strong final jump.”

The 2024 Punchestown Festival began with Georgie Benson riding Peter Flood-trained Knockiel Synge to victory in the Kildare Hunt Club Chase Ladies’ Cup, securing a 20/1 win. The Full Circle Series for horses rated 130 or lower also delivered results, with Tom Lacey training winner Tune In A Box and third-placed Montregard.

“It was my formwork assistant who suggested the series,” Lacey shared. “The conditions seemed perfect for our horses, and targeting the qualifiers proved to be a smart move.”

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List of Irish runners dominate entries for the English 1000 & 2000 Guineass 2024 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/list-of-irish-runners-dominate-entries-for-the-english-1000-2000-guineass-2024 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/list-of-irish-runners-dominate-entries-for-the-english-1000-2000-guineass-2024#respond Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:21:11 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31532 Irish Runners Dominate Latest Entries for QIPCO Guineas The latest entries for the QIPCO 2000 and 1000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket highlight the strong presence of Irish-trained runners. Following today’s scratchings deadline, there remain 21 entries in the 2000 Guineas with five Irish-trained horses, while the 1000 Guineas includes 27 entries, featuring ten Irish-trained runners. […]

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Irish Runners Dominate Latest Entries for QIPCO Guineas

The latest entries for the QIPCO 2000 and 1000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket highlight the strong presence of Irish-trained runners. Following today’s scratchings deadline, there remain 21 entries in the 2000 Guineas with five Irish-trained horses, while the 1000 Guineas includes 27 entries, featuring ten Irish-trained runners.

Notable entries in the 2000 Guineas include heavy odds on favorite City of Troy, Diego Velazquez, Henry Longfellow, and River Tiber, all trained by the renowned Aidan O’Brien.

In the 1000 Guineas, notable Irish-trained entries such as Ylang Ylang, Brilliant, Buttons, Content, and Everlasting also hail from O’Brien’s stables, promising a strong showing from Ireland.

3.35pm, Saturday 4th May

Al Musmak (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah Roger Varian

Alyanaabi (IRE) 3 9 2 Shadwell Estate Company Ltd Owen Burrows

Ancient Wisdom (FR) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Ballymount Boy (IRE) 3 9 2 Wathnan Racing Adrian Keatley

Bucanero Fuerte 3 9 2 AMO Racing Limited/Giselle De Aguiar Adrian Murray Ireland

City of Troy (USA) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Dancing Gemini (IRE) 3 9 2 Fishdance Ltd Roger Teal

Diego Velazquez (IRE) 3 9 2 Smith,Magnier,Tabor,Westerberg,Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Eben Shaddad (USA) 3 9 2 HRH Prince Faisal Bin Khaled & Najd Stud John & Thady Gosden

Ghostwriter (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Clive Cox

Haatem (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah Richard Hannon

Henry Longfellow (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Iberian (IRE) 3 9 2 Teme Valley & Ballylinch Stud Charles Hills

Inisherin 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Kevin Ryan

Night Raider (IRE) 3 9 2 Clipper K. R. Burke

Notable Speech 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

River Tiber (IRE) 3 9 2 Tabor/Smith/Magnier/Westerberg/Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Rosallion (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Richard Hannon

Sayedaty Sadaty (IRE) 3 9 2 Ahmad Al Shaikh Andrew Balding

Task Force 3 9 2 Juddmonte Ralph Beckett

Ten Bob Tony (IRE) 3 9 2 TBT Racing Limited Ed Walker

 

21 entries remain after April 23rd scratchings deadline

5 Irish-trained

QIPCO 1000 Guineas Stakes (Group 1) (British Champions Series) 1m

 

3:40pm, Sunday 5th May

Brilliant (IRE) 3 9 2 D.Smith,Mrs J.Magnier,M.Tabor,Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Buttons (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Cinderella’s Dream 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Content (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Dance Sequence 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby

Darnation (IRE) 3 9 2 Newtown Anner Stud Farm K. R. Burke

Elmalka 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Roger Varian

Everlasting (IRE) 3 9 2 M Tabor/D Smith/Mrs J Magnier/Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Fallen Angel 3 9 2 Clipper K. R. Burke

Finsceal Luas (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Michael A Ryan J. S. Bolger Ireland

Kitty Rose 3 9 2 Mr Tim Porter Mick Price and Michael Kent Jr Australia

Lunar Eclipse (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Juma Dalmook Al Maktoum David Simcock

Manhattan Dreamer (USA) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Adrian Murray Ireland

One Look (IRE) 3 9 2 Connolly Racing Syndicate P. Twomey Ireland

Persian Dreamer (USA) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Dominic Ffrench Davis

Porta Fortuna (IRE) 3 9 2 Medallion/S Weston/B Fowler/Reeves T’Bs Donnacha Aidan O’Brien Ireland

Purple Lily (IRE) 3 9 2 Zinlo Syndicate P. Twomey Ireland

Ramatuelle (USA) 3 9 2 Infinity 9 Horses/C. W. Knok Christopher Head France

Regal Jubilee 3 9 2 Cheveley Park Stud John & Thady Gosden

Rolica (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr P. W. Harris Jane Chapple-Hyam

Sacred Angel (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Nurlan Bizakov Charlie Johnston

See The Fire 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Andrew Balding

Star Music 3 9 2 Mr Jaber Abdullah Richard Hughes

Star Style 3 9 2 Mrs J. Wood Richard Hannon

Tamfana (GER) 3 9 2 Quantum Leap Racing VIII & Friends David Menuisier

True Cyan (IRE) 3 9 2 KHK Racing Roger Varian

Ylang Ylang 3 9 2 Magnier,Tabor,Smith,Brant,Westerberg Aidan O’Brien Ireland

 

27 entries remain after April 23rd scratchings deadline

10 Irish-trained

1 French-trained

1 Australian-trained

 

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Three Grand National horses to follow as rain descends on Aintree https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/three-grand-national-horses-to-follow-as-rain-descends-on-aintree https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/three-grand-national-horses-to-follow-as-rain-descends-on-aintree#respond Wed, 10 Apr 2024 11:35:49 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31453 Last year’s Grand National may have been marred by protests, but it looks increasingly likely that the 2024 running of the famous race will be affected by a more traditional British problem – the weather. With the official going at Aintree currently being described as ‘soft, heavy in places’, and Storm Kathleen expected to batter […]

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Last year’s Grand National may have been marred by protests, but it looks increasingly likely that the 2024 running of the famous race will be affected by a more traditional British problem – the weather.

With the official going at Aintree currently being described as ‘soft, heavy in places’, and Storm Kathleen expected to batter the area in the build up to the Festival, owners and trainers alike will have to take difficult decisions as to whether to pull their horses out of the race at the final moment.

But while the bad weather spells problems for many, there are a few mudlarks that’ll absolutely revel in the difficult conditions. Here are three Grand National runners to keep a close eye on if the poor weather extends deep into the week.
Nassalam

Nassalam really came to everyone’s attention as a potential Grand National winner in December. Having already won the Welsh National trial on heavy Chepstow ground earlier in the month, he went on to dominate the Welsh Grand National too. Nassalam took a field of 19 horses apart, winning by a remarkable 34 lengths, so don’t be put off by his more recent showing at Cheltenham.
Delta Work

Many watchers of the Grand National will already be familiar with Delta Work, given he came home third in the 2022 running of the famous race. He followed that impressive showing up with a big win at the Cheltenham Festival, securing the Cross Country Chase in 2023 on soft ground. Detractors may say he’ll be past his best as an 11 year old, but the cancellation of this year’s Cross Country Chase ensures Delta Work will head to Aintree fresher than in previous years.
I Am Maximus

Of all this year’s Grand National favourites, I Am Maximus could be the one to benefit most from softer ground. None of his last 11 runs have been on ground better than soft, so a sapping four miler at Aintree should prove far less daunting than for many of his rivals. Irish horse racing fans may recall I Am Maximus winning the 2023 Irish National on soft ground at Fairyhouse, and he was most recently seen taking the Bobbyjo Chase by 14 lengths under soft to heavy conditions.

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Famous former Jockey to run for European elections https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/famous-former-jockey-to-run-for-european-elections https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/famous-former-jockey-to-run-for-european-elections#respond Mon, 18 Mar 2024 22:04:15 +0000 https://sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31241 Famous former Jockey to run for European elections Nina Carberry, one of Ireland’s most successful female riders, is set to swap the racecourse for the political field as the former champion amateur will run as a candidate for Fine Gael in the European elections this June. Since retiring from race-riding in 2018 after winning on […]

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Famous former Jockey to run for European elections

Nina Carberry, one of Ireland’s most successful female riders, is set to swap the racecourse for the political field as the former champion amateur will run as a candidate for Fine Gael in the European elections this June.

Since retiring from race-riding in 2018 after winning on the Enda Bolger-trained Josies Orders at the Punchestown festival, Carberry has remained in the spotlight and won the hit TV show Dancing With The Stars in 2022, proving she remained as popular as ever with the public. She also appeared as a coach on the RTE sports show, Ireland’s Fittest Family.

Carberry, who rode seven festival winners at Cheltenham, will stand in the Midlands-North West constituency which stretches from her native Meath across the Midlands to Galway and up to Donegal. There are five seats on offer in that polling area, one more than in 2019.

Speaking about her decision to enter politics, Carberry said: “In the Ireland and Europe of today, it is more important than ever for those who believe they can make a difference to put their hand up to make things happen. As a mother of two, that is why I want to contest the European Elections for Fine Gael this June to ensure a bright future for all.
“Across Europe, rural areas encounter unique difficulties, and this holds even truer for an island off the European coast. I want to be a champion for balanced regional development, making sure every town and village has access to the services and infrastructure that allow people to live and work locally. I also want to connect and restore communities by supporting the work of the many voluntary groups and businesses to create vibrant spaces across the region.”
She added: “Farmers and small businesses do so much for our communities and Europe can do a lot for them. I want to reduce the burden on farmers and businesses by simplifying the red tape they need to complete to access support.

“For me, one of the great advantages of the European project is free movement for students, providing access to a wide variety of educational opportunities. It is important to protect this. As somebody who has a keen interest in skills development, I want to see the development of a cross-European apprentice scheme that could benefit the sharing of skills and ideas to create more opportunities for our young people.””

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Preview – Exciting Start to the Irish Flat Season at the Curragh https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/preview-exciting-start-to-the-irish-flat-season-at-the-curragh https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/preview-exciting-start-to-the-irish-flat-season-at-the-curragh#respond Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:42:57 +0000 https://sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31236 Exciting Start to the Irish Flat Season at the Curragh The Irish Flat season kicks off at the Curragh today amidst heavy going, following 1mm of rain in the last 24 hours. Met Eireann predicts a dry morning, with light rain expected in the afternoon, potentially bringing 3-5mm of rainfall. The racing action commences with […]

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Exciting Start to the Irish Flat Season at the Curragh

The Irish Flat season kicks off at the Curragh today amidst heavy going, following 1mm of rain in the last 24 hours. Met Eireann predicts a dry morning, with light rain expected in the afternoon, potentially bringing 3-5mm of rainfall. The racing action commences with the first of eight races scheduled to start at 1:35 pm.

The opening two-year-old maiden of the season surprisingly doesn’t have an Aidan O’Brien runner with Adrian Murray looking to win the prize with one of his three runners after his stable star Bucanero Fuerte won the race last year. The Amo Racing, David Egan ridden Arizona Blue looks the most likely of the three to win.

Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire Anticipation

Fozzy Stack’s Chazzesmee leads the market for the Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire at 4:10 pm, following a commendable runner-up performance last July. Meanwhile, Simply Sideways, a key contender for trainer Tim Doyle, aims to capitalize on her impressive form from the previous season, boasting five handicap wins in 2023.

Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes Highlight

The Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes, set to commence at 3:40 pm, promises to be one of the highlights of the day. The Group 3 contest for fillies and mares features notable contenders such as Brilliant and Everlasting, both showing promise for the season ahead.

The field includes promising talents like Goldana and You Send Me, showcasing potential for further improvement. Mammas Girl, winner of the Nell Gwyn Stakes, debuts under Adrian Murray’s guidance, adding intrigue to the race. Additionally, Cadeau Belle and Sli Na Ghealai aim to make an impact, alongside other contenders vying for victory in this prestigious event.

 

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Aidan O’Brien: The Pursuit of Excellence at Ballydoyle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/aidan-obrien-the-pursuit-of-excellence-at-ballydoyle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/aidan-obrien-the-pursuit-of-excellence-at-ballydoyle#respond Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:21:15 +0000 https://sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31231 Aidan O’Brien: The Pursuit of Excellence at Ballydoyle Aidan O’Brien’s relentless pursuit of excellence at Ballydoyle resonates profoundly with the mantra “Better never stops.” As he gears up for the upcoming season, O’Brien, now 54, aims to defend his title as Ireland’s champion flat trainer for the 27th time, with a remarkable streak of 25 […]

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Aidan O’Brien: The Pursuit of Excellence at Ballydoyle

Aidan O’Brien’s relentless pursuit of excellence at Ballydoyle resonates profoundly with the mantra “Better never stops.” As he gears up for the upcoming season, O’Brien, now 54, aims to defend his title as Ireland’s champion flat trainer for the 27th time, with a remarkable streak of 25 consecutive victories. Moreover, his quest for global success shows no signs of slowing down.

Season Highlights and Milestones

The 2023 campaign was nothing short of remarkable for O’Brien. Notable achievements included Auguste Rodin’s victory in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, marking O’Brien’s 100th European Classic victory. Additionally, Henry Longfellow’s triumph in the Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes marked O’Brien’s 4000th career win, a testament to his enduring success on the global stage.

Relentless Focus and Commitment

Despite these milestones, O’Brien remains steadfast in his approach, with a refusal to dwell on past successes. He emphasizes the importance of staying fully focused and committed every single day, with no room for complacency. O’Brien’s relentless intensity is evident in his unwavering dedication to continuous improvement and his insistence on staying sharp and alert at all times.

Team Effort and Humility

While O’Brien may be the face of the operation, he acknowledges the monumental team effort behind his success. He attributes achievements to the collective effort of owners, jockeys, and the entire team at Ballydoyle. Despite personal accolades, O’Brien remains humble, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and focusing on the next challenge.

Looking Ahead

As the new season unfolds, O’Brien remains optimistic about the prospects of promising talents like City Of Troy. He takes pride in representing Ireland on the world stage and acknowledges the contributions of the entire Irish racing community. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a deep appreciation for the sport, O’Brien’s legacy at Ballydoyle continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts.

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Video Replay – Stateman beats Irish Point in Champion Hurdle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-stateman-beats-irish-point-in-champion-hurdle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-stateman-beats-irish-point-in-champion-hurdle#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:36:38 +0000 https://sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31168 Cheltenham Festival Recap: State Man Secures Fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle Title for Mullins Trainer Willie Mullins celebrated his fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle victory at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday, March 12th, as State Man triumphed, improving on his performance from the previous year. 🟡⚫️ State Man – all class in the Champion Hurdle 🏇 14 […]

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Cheltenham Festival Recap: State Man Secures Fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle Title for Mullins

Trainer Willie Mullins celebrated his fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle victory at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday, March 12th, as State Man triumphed, improving on his performance from the previous year.

Mullins expressed admiration for jockey Paul Townend’s confident ride aboard State Man, highlighting his surprise at Townend’s strategic positioning in the race. Despite initial expectations of a more forward position, Townend’s supreme confidence in the horse led him to ride for speed, ultimately securing a brilliant victory. Mullins commended Townend’s exceptional skills and praised his partnership with State Man.

Reflecting on State Man’s performance, Mullins emphasized the horse’s solid and dependable nature, attributing his success to his unwavering consistency. Despite challenging ground conditions, State Man’s stamina proved invaluable, showcasing his resilience and toughness throughout the race. Mullins ruled out Aintree as the next target for State Man, opting instead for the familiar terrain of Punchestown.

Paul Townend, enjoying his first Champion Hurdle win, lauded State Man’s simplicity and praised the horse’s deserving victory. Townend expressed personal significance in winning the Champion Hurdle, highlighting its importance in his racing career and reminiscing about his association with past champions.

In the 3:30 pm Unibet Champion Hurdle, State Man emerged victorious as the 2-5 favorite, followed by Irish Point and Luccia. Mullins, Townend, and the entire team celebrated State Man’s remarkable achievement, solidifying their status as formidable contenders in the racing world.

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Video Replay – Lossiemouth wins the Mares’ Hurdle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-lossiemouth-wins-the-mares-hurdle https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/racing_irish/video-replay-lossiemouth-wins-the-mares-hurdle#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:28:46 +0000 https://sportsnewsireland.com/?p=31164 Cheltenham Festival Highlights: Mullins and Townend Triumph in Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle Trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend celebrated a remarkable victory on Champion Day as Lossiemouth claimed the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, marking a 5.7-1 treble for the duo. 🚀 Lossiemouth – Mares' Hurdle heroine & in some style 🏇 Eight runs🥇 Seven […]

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Cheltenham Festival Highlights: Mullins and Townend Triumph in Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle

Trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend celebrated a remarkable victory on Champion Day as Lossiemouth claimed the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, marking a 5.7-1 treble for the duo.

Paul Townend commended Lossiemouth’s brilliance and praised the patience and dedication of the team behind her success. Despite concerns about the rain affecting the horse’s stamina, Townend delivered a flawless ride, guiding Lossiemouth to victory with ease. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to ride such exceptional horses and acknowledged the privilege of competing at the Cheltenham Festival.

Willie Mullins echoed Townend’s sentiments, hailing Lossiemouth as a Champion Hurdle mare and praising Townend’s calm demeanor in the saddle. Mullins emphasized the importance of strategic decision-making, affirming the team’s choice not to run Lossiemouth in the Champion Hurdle. He revealed plans to prepare Lossiemouth for future races, including Punchestown and possibly the Champion Hurdle.

Winning owner Rich Ricci expressed delight at Lossiemouth’s victory and outlined plans to bring her back to Cheltenham next year. He praised the team’s disciplined approach and expressed pride in Lossiemouth’s achievements.

Trainer Henry De Bromhead lauded his horses’ performances, highlighting Telmesomethinggirl’s impressive run and Hispanic Moon’s progression. Despite Lossiemouth’s dominance, De Bromhead expressed satisfaction with his runners’ performances and looked ahead to future races.

In the 4:10 pm Close Brothers’ Mares’ Hurdle, Lossiemouth emerged victorious as the 8-13 favorite, followed by Telmesomethinggirl and Hispanic Moon. The win marked significant milestones for jockey Paul Townend, trainer Willie Mullins, and owner Susannah Ricci, reaffirming their status as formidable contenders at the Cheltenham Festival.

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