Vanderlin takes Leopardstown challenge
Vanderlin will face nine rivals when he goes for gold in the Ballycorus Stakes at Leopardstown tomorrow.
Andrew Balding’s globetrotting eight-year-old has not won since dead-heating in an all-weather Listed race at Lingfield last year, but showed up well in a decent event at Haydock on his seasonal reappearance.
Connections bypassed an engagement closer to home last week on account of quickish ground and Balding admits he would like to see some juice in the turf tomorrow evening.
“He’s in good shape and was due to run at Goodwood but the ground was a bit quick for him there,” he said.
“We’re going to Ireland and any rain that comes would be very welcome but he’ll run whatever and should go well.
“He’s been a great servant and he put in a really good effort in a decent race on his return, which showed he is somewhere near his best.
“Chris Hayes is having his first ride for me but he has come with some rave reviews so I’m sure he’s very capable.”
Among the notable opposition in a trappy renewal of the Group Three highlight is Jim Bolger’s Modeeroch, Edward Lynam’s Duff, and the Michael Halford-trained Eastern Appeal.
King Jock, Hard Rock City, Lord Admiral, Absolutelyfabulous, Fleeting Shadow and Summit Surge complete the 10-strong line-up.
