Mick Halford is looking forward to seeing Defining Year test his powers in Listed company in the Anne Brewster Memorial Loughbrown Stakes at the Curragh.
The Hawk Wing colt defied top-weight in a decent course-and-distance handicap a couple of weeks ago, but Halford admits this weekend’s contest sets his charge a much tougher assignment.
“It’s a step up in class for our horse but he’s in good form and ready to take his chance,” said Halford.
“Jim Bolger’s horse (Glor Na Mara) stands out as the horse to beat, but this was the obvious next step for our horse after his win in a handicap.
“It was a good performance from him the other week with top-weight. We’re forecast rain but I think he’d handle soft ground well.”
Glor Na Mara is the clear form pick having finished third behind Frankel in last year’s Dewhurst Stakes on his latest appearance.
Aidan O’Brien saddles Sing Softly, while Triple Eight and Tell The Wind are other contenders.
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