3 minute read
Queen Catrine made the perfect start for new trainer Ger Lyons when landing the Listed Clodovil European Breeders Fund Garnet Stakes at Naas.
A dual winner for Charlie Hills and placed at Group One level as a juvenile, the four-year-old switched stables during the summer and was sent off at 5-1 for this Listed prize.
Colin Keane cut a confident figure throughout in the saddle and remained motionless heading inside the final two furlongs.
Once asked to go about her business, Queen Catrine soon settled matters and galloped all the way to the line to beat the staying on Assume by a length and three-quarters, with favourite Tamadhor the same distance back in third.
"I've liked what I've seen at home and she is a very smart filly. She hit the front too soon, but went on and did her job," said Lyons.
"I got her about a month ago. She's been working well, but you only really find out when they run on the track.
"It's up in the air whether she stays in training, but on that performance I'd like to think there is a Group Three in her."