SUCSIS AT LAST
Lyons ends 30-year Classic wait
GER LYONS and Colin Keane tasted Classic success for the first time as Siskin retained his unbeaten record and justified 2/1 favouritism in the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh yesterday.
Racing beyond six furlongs for the first time, the Juddmonte-owned colt mastered a trio of Aidan O’brientrained challengers, Vatican City, Lope Y Fernandez and Armory to register a hugely popular win.
Last to enter the stalls and settled in midfield along the rail, the winner was eased out of a pocket with a furlong and a half to race before delivering his challenge and, responding to two ‘cracks’ from Keane to pick up well to triumph by a length and three-quarters.
“It’s a dream come true,” beamed a jubilant Ger Lyons.
“To win a Guineas was always my number one aim. And I’ve done it, after 30 years of hard graft. I’m delighted for all the team at Glenburnie.
“It was hard work out there. Colin was out there on his own, against a football team (the six Ballydoyle runners). I told him to ride him like he’s the best horse you’ve ever ridden, and he did. Full marks to him.”
Lyons added: “This is huge for everyone. And It’s all about Prince Khalid Abdullah, who trusted us with some lovely horses. And I’m delighted it has paid off for him.”
Giving Lyons his third Group 1 success, Siskin conclusively proved his ability to stay a mile and is now likely to be aimed at the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood at the end of July.
Aidan O’brien nominated next Saturday’s Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot as the target for Admiral Nelson following his impressive victory under Wayne Lordan in the opener, when he readily brushed aside stable-companion and favourite Merchants Quay.
But no joy for O’brien’s Fleeting in the Group 2 Mooresbridge Stakes, a well-beaten second behind Leo De Fury, another winner for in-form combination of Jessica Harrington and Shane Foley, who will rely on Albigna in today’s Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas.
Earlier, Joseph O’brien and apprentice Shane Crosse doubled-up with Crossfirehurricane, who retained his unbeaten record in the Gallinule, and Galileo Chrome in the mile-and-a-quarter maiden.