Sugar Boy is clear as he races to victory under Chris Hayes© Photo Healy Racing
Patrick Prendergast hopes Sugar Boy could develop into a classic contender next season after his victory in the Eyrefield Stakes at Leopardstown.
The Authorized colt ran out an impressive six-and-a-half length winner of the Listed contest to record a hat-trick of victories.
Chris Hayes kept his mount wide in the nine-furlong contest and he disputed the lead from half a mile out.
The 4/1 shot forged clear in the straight as he pulled away from his rivals in great style. Coolibah came from behind, and had to weave through traffic, to finish second, three-parts ahead of Cest Notre Gris Twilight Zone was sent off 11/4 favourite but proved a major disappointment, trailing in last.
"He's very tough - as tough as nails and is a relentless galloper," said Prendergast afterwards.
"Before the Staffordstown Stud Stakes I thought Seolan worked badly as she couldn't get to him but as you can see he's not easy to get to. He's smart.
"He's improved all year and the more we throw at him the more he comes back.
"He has been on the market but no-one came for him and his price has gone up now!
"He's in the Derby next year. He'll go for a trial and we'll take it from there. He came into this rated only 91 but he keeps improving.
"It was a clever ride. He looked to be very wide but Chris said the ground was very cut up inside."
