Venus De Milo (left, pink). In the distance is Moth (third left, dark blue colours)© Photo Healy Racing
Ballydoyle landed the Listed Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Naas Oaks Trial at Naas today but not with the one most expected to win, Moth (4/11 favourite, met trouble in-running), the race instead going to stablemate Venus De Milo (8/1).
Moth was heavily backed following two fine efforts in the English 1,000 Guineas and Oaks and was again patiently ridden by Joseph O'Brien.
However once the race began in earnest in the straight, the gaps failed to appear for Moth who was blocked numerous occasions on the heels of the main group. Opera Gloves and Bunairgead looked set to fight out the finish before Venus De Milo flew home late on, to edge a three parts of a length win over Opera Gloves.
Moth failed to get a run and finished well back in eighth.
Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien was absent but Heffernan later stated “Venus De Milo showed a lot as a younger filly at home but Aidan didn't want to run her until she was ready.
“She surprised me at Fairyhouse the way she quickened when the penny dropped and I was riding her to run a nice race today and wanted to teach her a bit to see if she was up to running in these kinds of races.
“I wasn't sure, but I initially thought the reason she won at Fairyhouse was because of the soft ground but the ground was totally the opposite today. She has a bit of class though and is strong and versatile.”
By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson
