Ryan Moore enjoyed a successful debut at Punchestown on Tuesday, guiding the promising juvenile Genealogy to victory.
Trained by Aidan O’Brien, Genealogy, a son of Wootton Bassett, was up against it when the even-money favourite Storm Piece took the lead in the William Hill Betting Done Properly Maiden. However, Genealogy, who had previously finished second behind stablemate Acapulco Bay, made a strong finishing effort to win by a length and a half at 11-10.
Stable representative Chris Armstrong commented: "Ryan gave him a superb ride despite the wide draw. Even when he reached the front, Genealogy was still quite green. His debut run at the Curragh was promising, and it's great to see him win now."
"He’s a big, scopey horse, and anything he achieves this year is a bonus. We might consider the Eyrefield Stakes at Leopardstown for him, and if he continues to improve, he could be a contender for a mile-and-a-quarter race in France."
"Ryan was very positive about him. He has a good attitude and a lot of ability once he fully matures. He’s one to look forward to for next year and could develop into a lovely middle-distance horse. He handled the tight bends well and once balanced, he really took off."
Moore had previously finished fourth aboard Ballydoyle’s odds-on Mint Candy in the opening William Hill Keep Your Raceday Positive Irish EBF Fillies Maiden, which was won by Joseph O’Brien’s Amangani at 100-30. Dylan Browne McMonagle, who had a standout day, later secured a treble with Proleek Prince (8-1) for Michael Rice and Shavasi, who won the William Hill Extra Place Races Daily Irish EBF Fillies Handicap in impressive fashion.
Browne McMonagle reflected, "It’s been a fantastic day. Everything’s going really well, and I hope it continues."
Star Harbour, the 4-5 favourite, surpassed £200,000 in career earnings with a narrow head victory in the Happy 60th Birthday to Ger Dunne of Punchestown Race, under 3lb claimer Adam Caffrey.
Trainer Ado McGuinness praised the six-year-old, saying, "He just managed to get there, and it’s fantastic for the owners. He’s been a great money-spinner for them. He wasn’t a cheap purchase, but the enjoyment they’ve had from him has been invaluable."