Barefoot Apollo rocketsback to form

Barefoot Apollo became the standard setter during an eventful second stage of the Irish Laurels on Saturday night at Curraheen Park.

Trained by Paul Hennessy for Bryan and Kathleen Murphy, Cayman Islands, he left behind the disappointment of his first-round defeat with a flawless display here.

With a very fast exit from his middle pitch, the 7-2 chance was clear of Carrowkeal Bart into the first turn, with favourite Drive On Royal working hard to get within hailing distance.Try as they did, none of Barefoot Apollo’s rivals could get on terms with the relentless leader, who stormed home four lengths clear, in 28.23, with the favourite half a length back in third.