Crystal Black surged from last to first to capture the Xin Gin Ballyroan Stakes at Leopardstown, showcasing his impressive progression. Trained by Ger Keane and ridden by his champion jockey son, Colin, the six-year-old, who began his winning streak with a rating of just 77, added a Group Three victory to his impressive resume after winning the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Keane guided the 11-10 favourite along the outside in the mile-and-a-half feature, effortlessly overtaking market rival The Euphrates and securing a five-length victory over Aidan O’Brien’s runner.
This win keeps Crystal Black's Melbourne Cup dreams alive, potentially attracting new ownership interest.
In other results, O’Brien’s Ylang Ylang, who was the 11-8 favourite for the Oaks at Epsom, finished a disappointing sixth and has been sidelined since due to a problem. O’Brien had noted she wouldn’t be fully fit, and Ger Lyons’ six-year-old Mutasarref capitalised on this, winning for the ninth time.
Amo Racing’s Hill Road made an impressive debut in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (C&G) Maiden. Purchased for $350,000 by Kia Joorabchian’s operation, Hill Road’s five-length victory under David Egan suggests a promising future, potentially leading to a Group One entry in the Vincent O’Brien National Stakes.