Balmont’s Flyer

He settled handy, dashed to the lead two furlongs out and drew away to take the Crowne Plaza Handicap (10 1/2 furlongs) by three lengths at Dundalk last Friday (January 11) as an even-money favourite.

Balmont Flyer, who is ridden by Pat Smullen for trainer Joanna Morgan, is from Ballyhookeen Lass, by Balla Cove.

Dundalk has special memories for Smullen, the six time Irish champion rider. He had his first public ride at the old track in 1994 – and over hurdles.

Smullen’s career took off when he replaced Mick Kinane as Dermot Welds’s retained rider in 1999. He has since won major races in Ireland, England, France and the US and took the 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 Irish St Leger on champion stayer Vinnie Roe.

Balmont Flyer has now won three of his last five runs at Dundalk and was second in the others, beaten a nose and 2 1/4 lengths.