Grangeview & Guilfoyle seek further classic glory

TRAPRISE

 

It was another very busy week on the Open race scene with many local kennels contesting for major sweepstake success. However, all attention will turn to Curraheen Park in Cork this Saturday where trainer Pat Guilfoyle seeks to complete a full set of the sport’s original classic events having guided Grangeview Ten to the final of the 2019 Irish Laurels.

Representing Lorrha owner Michael Hogan, Grangeview Ten (Zero Ten/Portumna West) was widely recognised as the fastest early pacer in this season’s Irish Derby but now bidding for his second classic victory having claimed the Produce Stakes at Clonmel back in May, the Laurels always appeared likely to ideally suit his blistering early dash.

Of course, the 525-yard Cork classic perennially attracts the very best early pacers in racing and as such, the run to the opening bend is crucial throughout the competition. A warm favourite since posting 28.00 (+10) in opening night victory, Grangeview Ten has been forced to settle for second in his last two outings, emphasising the intense competitiveness of the Laurels.

Moderately to stride from Trap 2 in Saturday’s semi, he would trail Easter Cup champ Clona Blaze and Juvenile Derby runner-up Sliabh Liag in the initial stages but once in full flight, his early speed would see him reduce his arrears. Securing clear passage on the rails at the corner, Grangeview Ten rushed up on the inside of Clona Blaze and he would strike the front before reaching the back-straight.

Impressively extending to a one and a half length advantage over that rival, the Hogan star remained in front to the home-straight but he would find a renewed effort from Clona Blaze too strong to resist close home when ceding victory by one and a half lengths in 28.11 (+20) while repelling Sliabh Liag to secure his final place.

Final Draw: 1) Rockybay Foley 2) Ballyanne Sim 3) Grangeview Ten 4) Doona Buck 5) Clona Blaze (w) 6) Newinn Lester (w)

 

 

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