Upset on debut as Even Par edges favourite in Curragh maiden
Gavin Cromwell produced a dramatic debut victory at the Curragh when Even Par scored at 25/1 in the EBF Median Sires Series Maiden over a mile. The colt prevailed by a neck over the well-backed Lunar Empress after a finish that kept the Ayr crowds on their toes.
Strong run seals narrow success
Ridden by Jack Kearney, Even Par recovered late to collar the leader in the final strides after tracking the pace for much of the closing stages. Lunar Empress, ridden by Shane Foley, had looked set to take the race when moving into the lead inside the final quarter mile, but could not hold off the late surge.
The Boogeyman filled third place, finishing some four and a half lengths behind the pair. He had been sent off at 8/1.
Team pleased with physical and mental profile
The victory drew praise from connections who highlighted the colt’s physique and demeanor. Even Par, a sizeable individual who handled soft ground well on the day, had been given time to mature by his handlers and showed the benefit of that patience on his first competitive outing.
The result will be welcomed by the Even Par Partnership, who own the colt. Members of the ownership group were represented among the connections in the winner’s circle following the race.
What the performance suggests
- Even Par displayed a composed debut run, settling and timing his finishing effort to good effect.
- The colt coped with testing ground, an encouraging sign for autumn fixtures where softer underfoot conditions are often a factor.
- The narrow margin over a well-fancied rival indicates the winner may improve with experience and further conditioning.
As a first-time starter taking a competitive Curragh maiden, Even Par’s performance will attract interest ahead of the winter and spring campaign, particularly from those targeting big summer festivals next season when three-year-olds come to the fore.
Connections and next steps
Trainer Gavin Cromwell and his team have indicated the colt had shown promise at home and that patience in bringing him to the track had paid off. His physical progress and the way he handled race conditions suggest he could be a colt to monitor as he steps forward in class.
For jockey Jack Kearney the ride underlined his ability to bring a newcomer through a crowded mile contest and produce a finishing kick when it mattered. Lunar Empress’s performance will also be noted by backers after running on strongly for second under Shane Foley.
While connections have not outlined a specific plan beyond acknowledging the colt’s potential, the result at the Curragh represents an encouraging starting point for Even Par’s three-year-old season ambitions.
The race added another compelling chapter to a busy day of juvenile and maiden contests at the Curragh, illustrating how quickly a newcomer can alter the narrative in open company.
This article may have been prepared in whole or in part with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
