Improving Son Of Starspangledbanner Secures Dundalk Maiden

The progressive Barbapapa (3g Starspangledbanner - Eloge, by Galileo) shaped like a nice type when landing Friday’s mile maiden at Dundalk.

A promising fifth on his second start last month, Henry de Bromhead’s charge was sent off joint favourite under Mark Enright and raced prominently throughout. Pushed along from the two furlong pole, he was ridden to lead approaching the final furlong and kept on well to win by three parts of a length from Brave Troop (Pride Of Dubai).

Speaking after the race, Enright said, “He's a fine big horse, and I'd say the further he goes the better he'll get. I'd say whatever he does in the next while will be a bonus because when he grows into his frame he could be a nice horse.”

The K Haughey-owned chesnut won a barrier trial at the track in August and is the first foal bred by Gestut Rottgen out of Eloge (Galileo).