Team Cromwell collects the Christmas cash Gavin Cromwell scored with another inspired gambled-debutante today, as March’s Gold Cup-winning trainer landed Dundalk’s Bar 1 Betting Watch Live Racing On Our App Race with the Eddie O’Leary-owned Camino Vino (9s — 9/4). Today’s 12-runner race included 86-rated Evening Blues and while Camino Vino was generally a 40/1 chance at lunchtime, that price was cut to 9/1 by the opening show and later collapsed to 9/4 at the off, behind Evening Blues (4/6 - 13/8f). Ridden by safe-handed Rory Cleary, the Invincible Spirit filly raced in mid-division and while Evening Blues went clear a furlong out, she was worn down in the closing stages by Camino Vino, who collected the Christmas cash, by 1.25 lengths. Cromwell, whose yard has hit form and indeed landed another newcomer's gamble with future Gold Cup-winner Inothewayurthinkin in 2022, was represented by jockey Cleary, who explained "Eddie and Wendy (O'Leary, owners) had her at the breeze-ups in May but she wasn't making enough money. Eddie liked her so much that he decided to hang on to her, and she just took time to mature and develop. “I think she is going to do well with a little bit more time, she's a lovely big filly and will be lovely in time.” He added "Gavin just said she's a lovely, uncomplicated, straightforward filly. He said to jump out wherever you are, get in a rhythm and just make the best of your way home then and see how you go. He said she is doing everything right at home, and said he would be disappointed if she didn't run a big race. "She hit the line strong and it was a great trip for a first time out. I definitely think she will step up in trip in time." Quotes from Michael Graham
