Sword Fighter beats Landofhopeandglory© Photo Healy Racing
Sword Fighter produced another game front-running performance to claim the Group 2 Coral.ie Curragh Cup and complete a four-timer for Ballydoyle at the Curragh today.
Seamie Heffernan bounced out in front on the 11/4 shot as he aimed to supplement his victory in the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot last time. Alveena pressed the leader from two furlongs out but couldn't find a way past and had no more to offer inside the final furlong.
It was the winner's stable-mate Landofhopeandglory who came through to give chase in the closing stages but the 15/8 favourite could only get within two-lengths in the 1m6f contest.
Sword Fighter, who had sprang a 33/1 shock at Ascot, was confirming that form with Landofhopeandglory, who had been fourth in the two-miler last time.
"He's a very genuine horse. He really wants it, and stays very well. Seamie gave him a great ride, just like Colm did in Ascot. It's my fault that Ryan rode the other horse,” said O'Brien.
"He'll have a little break now as he's had a tough few weeks, and he's made for the English Leger."
Paddy Power made the winner 12/1 from 16/1 for the St Leger.
(Quotes by Alan Magee)
