Curragh action begins with a bang as Andab impresses The defection of Substance saw Dylan Brown McMonagle switch on to Andab (easy-to-back at 8/1) for Joseph O'Brien in the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden at the Curragh, and the Saxon Warrior colt ran out an impressive winner. Part-owned by breeder Trevor Stewart with Al Shaqab Racing, Andab was one of several runners for the O'Brien family here, with Donnacha's Balantina tumbling in odds from 9/1 into 5/2 favourite. That filly could manage no better than fourth place, as up front Andab saw off outsider Gavoo at his ease, by four and three parts of a length. “It was a smart performance. I’d be lying if I said we thought that he would win, he’s always been a little wayward mentally and we just wanted to get a start into him,” said O’Brien. “He needed it as he was turning into a bit of a messer at home. You’d have to be very impressed with the fashion he won and the professionalism that he showed. “The obvious thing to do is to come back for the Marble Hill. “The dream would be that he might be a Coventry horse. “We thought he was quick enough to start off at six and we thought that he’d enjoy going seven eventually. I would still say that’s the case but undoubtedly he’s quick enough to stick to six for the minute.” R.P. Whelan, rider of Vincent Square (GB), trained by Brendan W.Duke, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount was slowly away and ran green. (GC & EM)
