Smart Starspangledbanner Colt Earns Step Up In Class

The Joseph O’Brien-trained Hadman (2c Starspangledbanner - Anneli, by Galileo) may reappear in the Anglesey Stakes after recording back-to-back wins at Naas on Saturday.

The son of Starspangledbanner was sent off favourite for the seven furlong contest, with last month’s maiden success having received a boost with the third horse Once Upon A River (Churchill) having since impressed himself. Reunited with Dylan Browne McMonagle, the chesnut made all and was ridden approaching the final furlong to win by three parts of a length.

On future plans, the winning trainer said, “I’ve nothing in particular in mind but maybe something like the Anglesey Stakes at the Curragh. The Ballyhane Stakes back here could be another option and he might travel a bit later in the year.”

Owned by the Al Mamoura Partnership, Hadman was bred by the Merriebelle Irish Farm Ltd.