Mastercraftsman Colt Impresses With Stakes Success

Still Standing (4c Mastercraftsman - Il Palazzo, by Giant’s Causeway) made an impressive step up to Stakes level when taking the Listed Devoy Stakes in fine style at Naas on Sunday.

Making his seasonal return with four career victories to his name, the Jessica Harrington-trained colt was sent off favourite under stable jockey Shane Foley. Chasing the leaders for much of the ten furlong contest, the chestnut went second before the two furlong pole and led over a furlong from home. Quickening easily under hands and heels, he stretched three and a half lengths clear on the line.

Harrington, who trains the winner for Mrs P.K. Cooper, said after the race, “He loves that soft ground which he hasn't really had since he won here as a two-year-old. He'll come back here for the Alleged Stakes next month and we'll take it from there. He should be happy enough going a mile and a half a bit later on.”

Bred by Derek Iceton, Still Standing is out of a half-sister to Irish 1,000 Guineas Trial third Divine Night (Danehill), from the family of Xaar.