Irish Cesarewitch on Ascending's agenda Henry de Bromhead is eyeing the Friends Of The Curragh Irish Cesarewitch at the end of the month for Ascending after his creditable runner-up berth in the Ebor at York. The 12/1 shot kept on in the final furlong of that staying contest before going down by two and a-half lengths to the 5/1 favourite Ethical Diamond. The trainer said: "Ascending ran a brilliant race in the Ebor, Seamie (Heffernan) gave him a brilliant ride and we were delighted with him. "He has come out of the race well and could now go for the Irish Cesarewitch. "We'll see after that race, but he could be done for the year. It hasn't been discussed about going back over hurdles although you never say never." Ascending went into York on a four-timer after victories at Dundalk, in the Cork Derby and the Ascot Stakes at Royal Ascot. He has been placed on three of his seven races over hurdles, and was fourth in a Grade 1 juvenile hurdle at Leopardstown back in February 2023. Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
