Phoenix Thoroughbreds’ Lord McZie got off the mark at the third time of asking under a determined ride from Eddie Greatreax at Dundalk on Sunday, July 12.
It ‘s the rider’s first victory in Ireland and the second winner trained by Joseph O’Brien for Phoenix Thoroughbreds following that of Lady Penelope in the Listed Polonia Stakes.
After a modest start, Greatrex soon had the son of Coolmore’s Starspangledbanner in a good position just behind the leaders. Looking in danger of being caught flatfooted as the field entered the final stages of the five-furlong affair Greatrex switched the colt to the inside. From there, both horse and rider showed great determination to finish the strongest of the field and record victory.
“He ground it out well I’m pleased with him,” said Greatrex
“I almost got there too soon to be honest with you. The race fell apart slightly and I was left there. He never had a look around and was a straight as a die.
“I would say he’s a five-furlong horse. He’s not big, but he’s well built and has bags of speed. Hopefully, he can build on this and could be a nice horse to follow.”