Vacante gears up for Laurels with supershow

SATURDAY night at Curraheen provided a final chance for Laurels hopefuls to gain some competitive action at the track prior to the start of the Classic, and Sede Vacante put the finishing touches to his preparations with a super performance in a top-class renewal of the Great Stuff Caterers Open 525.

Trained by John Kiely, he shot past Colorful Champ on the approach to the opening turn and cemented his position at the head of affairs with an impressive display down the back. Colorful Champ, who is a strong stayer over this trip, came back at the leader in the closing stages but Sede Vacante held on well to boost his Laurels claims with a length victory in 28.49.

The question marks over Irish Sprint Cup winner Shoemakers Lad’s stamina remain after he was collared late in the Fota Island Resort Open 525. After sharing the lead with Barefoot Admiral as they raced to the turn, he asserted to lead into the back. He was still in front turning for home but he faded markedly in the closing stages, allowing the renewed effort of the Paul Hennessy-trained Barefoot Admiral succeed by two lengths in 28.62.