Killavullan still the plan for exciting Emerald Paul Deegan reports Shining Emerald “in great form” after his blistering display in the Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital Blenheim Stakes at the Curragh yesterday afternoon. The son of Clodovil went into many notebooks as something of a mudlark following a 16-length maiden victory at the Listowel Festival but showed he’s equally effective on good ground at the Curragh. Chris Hayes’ mount quickened smartly inside the final furlong to beat the odds-on Guerre by three lengths, with the remainder of the eight-runner field strung out behind. “He’s in great form this morning, came out of yesterday’s race well and ate everything. He’s one hundred per cent. I think we’ll keep to our plan and go for the Killavullan Stakes,” said Deegan. The Curragh trainer added, “We really fancied him at Leopardstown back in June when Sudirman beat him. But the ground that day was good to firm and it was just a bit lively for him. I didn’t want to risk him again on fast ground and so waited until Listowel. “It was nice ground at the Curragh but I still actually contemplated taking him out yesterday morning, and it’s good to know he handles proper good ground. He just doesn’t want it firm. He quickened well yesterday and settled it in a matter of strides. “He’s an exciting sort of colt and his home-work has always been good. The form of his races is also working out well which is good. He’s a solid horse both on the track and at home.”
