O’Brien pleased with Henry Longfellow’s success at the Curragh

The Rise of Henry Longfellow in the Coolmore Stud Wootton Bassett Irish EBF Futurity Stakes

Henry Longfellow, a remarkable colt bred by Coolmore, has added to his already impressive reputation with a dominant victory in the Coolmore Stud Wootton Bassett Irish EBF Futurity Stakes at the Curragh. With his exceptional bloodline as the son of Dubawi and Minding, this young talent showcased his potential right from his debut only 28 days ago. Trainer Aidan O’Brien wasted no time in elevating him to Group Two level for this prestigious race.

In a field of just four contenders, jockey Ryan Moore found himself momentarily urging on Henry Longfellow as Ger Lyons’ Spanish Flame seemed to hold a slight advantage. However, once Henry Longfellow found his rhythm and shifted into top gear, he effortlessly overtook and left his rivals behind. Although Isandsinthestream trained by Joseph O’Brien put up a valiant effort to keep pace with the favorite, there was still a comfortable two-length gap between them at the finish line.

As expected, updated Classic quotes quickly emerged following this impressive display of talent. Betfair slashed Henry Longfellow’s odds from 9-1 to 5-1 for the upcoming 2000 Guineas while Coral remained cautious but unchanged at 16-1 for Newmarket and 12-1 for the Derby.

Aidan O’Brien expressed his satisfaction with Henry Longfellow’s performance: “You’d be very happy. The good thing about it was that it was a solidly-run race which allowed him to learn plenty.” Looking ahead, O’Brien revealed that their next target is the Dewhurst Stakes where they plan to divide their runners between City Of Troy and Henry Longfellow. He also highlighted the versatility of Henry Longfellow’s pedigree, stating, “He’s a classy horse, capable of traveling well and showing a quick turn of foot. His Dubawi bloodline provides both speed and stamina.”

Ryan Moore, who rode Henry Longfellow to victory, had complete faith in the colt’s ability regardless of ground conditions: “There was no problem if it was going to be heavy today; he handles any kind of ground with ease.” Moore further confirmed that P-C Boudot has been instrumental in working closely with Henry Longfellow during training sessions, adding weight to the jockey’s confidence in this rising star.

Vespertilio Shines in Alpha Centauri Debutante Stakes

Trainer Willie McCreery celebrated as Vespertilio triumphed convincingly in the Alpha Centauri Debutante Stakes at the Curragh. After displaying promising form in her two previous outings – a third-place finish at Fairyhouse followed by an impressive performance against Ylang Ylang in a Group Three race – she entered this Group Two event as one of the favorites at odds of 4-1.

Jockey Billy Lee showcased his expertise by expertly positioning Vespertilio towards the rear among eight runners while Snellen and Betula set a strong pace upfront. Aidan O’Brien’s Pearls And Rubies momentarily posed a threat but it was Vespertilio who caught everyone’s attention as she effortlessly surged forward on the outside under Lee’s composed guidance. Ultimately, she crossed the finish line with an impressive lead of one length and three-quarters ahead of Ger Lyons-trained Sakti.

Willie McCreery expressed his delight with Vespertilio’s performance: “That was lovely. She ran a fantastic race last time out.” McCreery explained that Billy Lee had initially intended to position her closer to the front but circumstances forced him to settle further back. Regardless, Lee remained content with Vespertilio’s progress throughout and unleashed her at just the right moment. “She gets a free …”, McCreery trailed off, leaving speculations regarding future races and potential achievements surrounding this talented filly.

With these impressive victories from Henry Longfellow and Vespertilio, both trainers Aidan O’Brien and Willie McCreery have reason to be optimistic about their horses’ prospects in upcoming events. These rising stars are undoubtedly ones to watch as they continue their journey towards further success on the racing circuit.