Stakes Aim Likely For Smart Son Of Churchill

Naval Force (2g Churchill - Bint Al Reem, by Elusive Quality) shaped like a smart prospect when running out a commanding winner of Saturday’s mile maiden at Killarney.

The Donnacha O’Brien-trained newcomer raced prominently throughout under Gavin Ryan and was pushed along after turning for home. Running on strongly, he was ridden to lead a furlong out and kept on well to beat the favourite by three and a quarter lengths.

The winning rider later confirmed the smart nature of Naval Force’s performance, saying, “Without a doubt he could be stakes class. There might be something for him before the season ends but I'll see what Donnacha decides.”

Naval Force is owned by Atlantic Thoroughbreds and was bred by Lynch Bages with Rhinestone Bloodstock.