MAGIC FROM LENNIES DESIRE IN DEISE PLASTERING SEMI-FINALS

Barry Drake

Just like last week, LENNIES DESIRE (Signet Ace-Free From Desire) set the standard in the semi-finals of the Deise Plastering Novice 730 Stake at Kilcohan Park.

Trained by Paul Hennessy for owner Lee Craze, the in-form tracker produced one of his quickest starts to bounce out in front and make all the running. In total control right away, the impressive winner was displaying plenty of pace up front. The outcome was never in doubt, and Lennies Desire clocked a top-class 40.31, six lengths clear of Jaypees Cooper, with five lengths back to Kippers Lass in third place.

In the opening heat, Blackstone Cola (Dromana Bucko-Blackstone Lacey) recorded back-to-back wins for trainer David Flanagan and owner Matthew Derrick. The May puppy was last early, and she had plenty to do with a lap to go. Powering down the back straight, the eye was drawn to the strong stayer as Grouchos Cossie was setting strong fractions up front. Still a couple of lengths down, turning for home, Blackstone Cola was forced to dig deep, pulling out all the stops to beat the longtime leader, by a neck, in 40.66. Two lengths back to Jacktavern Beaut in third place.