Bale at his brilliant best in Derby

It has been a familiar position for Pat Guilfoyle over recent seasons but one that must never be taken for granted as the prolific Moneygall trainer again prepares for the final stages of the Boylesports Irish Derby having guided two of his stalwart campaigners to this Saturday’s semi-finals at Shelbourne Park.

Entering last weekend’s quarter-finals with four challengers remaining it was a session of mixed fortune for Pat Guilfoyle as he firstly saw Grangeview Ten suffer elimination when the victim of heavy bumps in the opening heat having charged the traps before his tardy break. He would also see Cabra Firmino lose out in the third heat as he too found bumps at the bend in a race of contrasting emotions for it was the wonderful Magical Bale who reinforced his designs on the Derby by leading throughout.

Swift to stride from his suitable Trap 1 berth, the 2018 runner-up would repel the early attentions of Cabra Firmino and Droopys Pension to his outside before powering clear to the back-straight. Remaining in command to the home stretch, Magical Bale (Zero Ten/Sizzling Sarah) repelled the powerful late challenge of strong stayer Ballydoyle Valor for a three-quarter length success while posting his best Shelbourne time of 29.35 for the 550 yards.

 

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