Ennis eyes 2000 Guineas prize

Frank Ennis has never sent out a Classic runner before, but not content with one runner in Saturday’s Boylesports Irish 2000 Guineas, he will have two.

Ennis, who trains just a stone’s throw from the Curragh, has his horses in electric form at the moment, with three of his four wins this season having been secured in the last week.

Better known for success with handicappers, he will saddle both Ferneley and Confuchias in the first Irish Classic of the season and while the former is far shorter in the betting, he hopes for a decent performance from both runners.

Ferneley got close to both Teofilo and Thousand Words as a two-year-old and made a pleasing reappearance in the 10-furlong Ballysax Stakes when finishing half a length behind Mores Wells.

Confuchias has been trying shorter distances, placing second and then fifth behind Guineas rival Creachadoir in his two outings this term.

“They are two different types. Confuchias has a lot of speed, whereas Ferneley is more of a relentless galloper,” explained Ennis.

“They are both in good form and I am expecting a good run from each.

“Confuchias ran a bit free last time, and we will just drop him in.

“Ferneley stays well and ran very well last time, but maybe did not quite get home over a mile and a quarter.

“I think a mile up the Curragh will really suit and there is improvement in both of them.”

Reflecting on his current hot streak, Ennis said: “I’m not doing anything differently, the horses have just come to themselves.”