PRESS RELEASE
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
FAIRYHOUSE PROVIDED THE STAGE FOR DERBY WINNER CAPE BLANCO ’S SUCCESSFUL JUVENILE CAMPAIGN
Fairyhouse Racecourse’s ability to provide the stage for future champions grew incredibly stronger on Sunday after Cape Blanco won the Irish Derby at the Curragh.
Trained by Aiden O’Brien and ridden by Meath man, Johnny Murtagh, the 3-year-old colt first saw action at Fairyhouse in June 2009 when winning the Blanchardstown Race under Seamie Heffernan. The son of Galileo then went on to round off his juvenile career at the Meath track by taking the Galileo EBF Futurity Stakes with Johnny Murtagh onboard later that same year. Apart from his run in the French Derby, he remains unbeaten in 5 runs.
Fairyhouse has long been associated with many equine stars both Flat and National Hunt, none more so than a previous stablemate of Cape Blanco’s, Johannesburg. After winning his maiden at Fairyhouse in May 2001, he went on to win 6 more races across the globe including Ireland, the UK, France and America becoming the World’s number one juvenile in the World in that season.
Caroline Gray, General Manager at Fairyhouse said: “We are delighted that Fairyhouse proved a successful stepping stone for Cape Blanco ’s success on Sunday. With the Meath track providing the venue and a Meath man on-board in his early successes it makes the connection even more special. Fairyhouse will forever be associated with the Irish Grand National but we’re not half bad at turning out a few Flat stars too!”
For further information please contact:
Niamh Power, Sales & Marketing Manager, Fairyhouse Racecourse 01 8256167
Caroline Gray, General Manager, Fairyhouse Racecourse 01 8256167