Logan chasing a third Cesarewitch for Guilfoyle at Mullingar

The Irish Cesarewitch at Mullingar harbours fond memories for trainer Pat Guilfoyle having guided Definate Opinion to a brace of titles with stunning victories in 2010 & 2011. The 2019 renewal had however brought a muted challenge from the kennels with Skywalker Logan (Tarsna Havana/Sizzling Sarah) battling for qualifying places in the early rounds but all changed on Saturday last when the enigmatic star produced a sublime semi-final victory.

Poor breaks when drawn on the rails in those opening rounds saw Logan fill fourth position in his two previous heats and he appeared more comfortable when drawn in Trap 2 for his semi-final. A step to his right at trap rise gratefully brought no bump and once in full stride, Logan would forge a one length lead on the approach to the opening bend. Handling the tight turns well, he would retain a one length advantage to the back-straight before his customary strong finish quickly settled the contest beyond the halfway point. Powering along the home-straight, he would extend to a hugely impressive six and a half-length verdict over Dromrich Altair while posting a very fast 33.16 (-70).

Equally as impressive, the Graham Holland trained Totos Park has been very consistent in the event and last season’s Derby semi-finalist claimed the opposing heat in 33.31 (-70) so clearly rates a big threat to Logan in this week’s final.

Final Draw: 1 - Mean Beauty; 2 - Skywaker Logan; 3 - Vaguely Noble (M); 4 - Bective Zeta (M); 5 - Dromrich Altair (W); 6 - Totos Park (W)

 

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