The Lir Jet storms home to win Franklin Simpson

The Lir Jet returned to winning form in the Grade 2 Franklin Simpson Stakes at Kentucky Downs on Saturday evening winning by a very comfortable 1 and 3/4 lengths.

Ridden by Tyler Gaffalione, The Lir Jet never left the inside rail and finished his race very strongly to storm clear inside the final furlong.

Trainer Brendan Walsh said after the race: “I haven’t had The Lir Jet a very long time, but he came to me in very good shape from Michael Bell which made my job very easy. We just took him over when he got off the plane, and here we are.

I thought he was very impressive. It looked like he was always in control and got a great ride. It worked out great. I’m delighted for Qatar Racing who have now won this race for the third consecutive year, and also their partners in the horse, RacehorseClub and their members.

RacehorseClub have had an amazing start over in the U.K. and Ireland. Now Grade 2, Grade 3 and Royal Ascot winners not mentioning a runner up in the Grand National all within six months of launching. It’s great to be part of their team training this wonderful horse. We’ll see how he comes out of the race and make a plan going forwards.”

Tyler Gaffalione who took the ride said post race: “He broke sharp, grabbed a hold of the bit running up the hill. Even going down the hill he grabbed it a little more. I had to wait a little bit longer. He was taking me the whole way. As soon as a spot opened up he accelerated and finished the job."

A truly magnificent performance and huge congratulations to you all. It was not an easy decision to ship The Lir Jet to America but thankfully the planned has worked out and we thank you all for your continued support.