Denton Hall News

'More under the bonnet' says Beasley as Commanche lands listed race in Ireland

CONNOR Beasley believes there’s even more to come after Commanche Falls landed his first stakes victory in the listed Jebel Ali Racecourse & Stables Dash Stakes on Irish Derby Day at The Curragh.

The admirable six-year-old gelding, who is already a dual Stewards’ Cup winner, always looked comfortable before striking for home and winning with authority from Joseph O'Brien's Anthem National.

Beasley joked after the race that the key to the horse’s success might be trainer Michael Dods staying at home.

“He’s won two Stewards’ Cups for me and I don’t think the boss has been there either time,” he laughed. “Bringing him over here, he’s been well placed by the boss to be fair. It looked a race we could potentially win, and once the gates opened, he was always in a lovely rhythm. He was off the bridle halfway and I knew he’d come home well. He’s done it nicely in the end.

“I don’t know what the plan will be for him but he can go on to bigger and better things because he gives you a feel that you don’t know where the bottom of him is. There’s always plenty under the bonnet and he’s a fantastic horse to be associated with.”

Assistant trainer, Chloe Dods, added: "He's a great horse to train - an easy ride and chilled at home. We'd probably be tempted to come back to Ireland after this and I don't think we'd be scared to go for tougher races."

Bookmakers quoted Commanche Falls at around 10-1 for a tilt at a third Stewards' Cup at Goodwood but trainer Michael Dods is non-committal.

"We haven't made any decisions - we'll have to look and see," he said. "He was entitled to win today on the handicap but you never know how they've travelled over. He's done it well, showing a good attitude, so it's made the trip worthwhile."