'It worked out brilliant' - Chris Hayes scoops a big-race treble

It seems that Chris Hayes can do more than ride winners – he can pick them too.

From early last week Hayes decided that Lady Of Inishfree was the one to be on in the €120,000 Irish EBF Auction Series Final, and made that clear to his agent.

His confidence in Noel Meade’s filly paid off when she fought hardest to take the feature race to form the middle leg of a big-race treble for the rider.

Hayes said: “I liked her when I rode her at Leopardstown. I rode work for Noel on Monday and before the weights came out I spoke to my agent Kevin O'Ryan and asked him to get me on her. The fact that it worked out was brilliant.”

Hayes won the 6f maiden on the Dermot Weld-trained newcomer Pearle D’or and completed the treble when partnering Meade’s Elysium in the Listed Garnet Stakes.

The rider said: “I thought I was unlucky on Elysium at Cork from a wide draw. I thought she had a little squeak that day. We were meant to ride her handy and she just missed the break.

"I had to go to plan B and she loved it. She enjoyed the juice in the ground and when you're riding for Noel, it's great because he never ties you down and never puts you under pressure. It makes it easier.”

Hayes added: “To pick up a spare for the Rosewell team [trainer Weld] was special, too. We've had many great days together.”

Thunder strikes for Keane and Lyons

The best dish was served last as Thunder Kiss put in the performance of the day to win the Bluebell Stakes under a penalty for Ger Lyons and Colin Keane.

Races such as the Group 1 British Champions Fillies and Mares could come under consideration for Thunder Kiss next year, according to Shane Lyons, who revealed the filly would stay in training as a five-year-old.

Lyons said: “Absolutely chuffed. She's been so consistent in defeat all year but she's a very genuine filly and she's going to stay in training next year.

"There's a big race in her. It was a tough ask under the penalty but we have a lot of faith in her.”

He added: “She's going out on a high for this season and is something to look forward to next year. The Fillies and Mares at Ascot yesterday, things like that could suit her. She has a lot going for her.”

Nutz about Naas

Half Nutz is well named as he sent his connections into a tizzy by confirming his love for Naas in the 6f handicap for Sheila Lavery and Andy Slattery.

It was a win that didn't look likely with two furlongs left to run, but when Half Nutz got a gap, he took flight to win for the third time over the course and distance.

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