Monday 17 August 2015 13:37, UK
Panama Hat's focus is likely to be shifted towards Irish Champions Weekend in mid-September after his game effort at Arlington on Saturday.
Trainer Andy Oliver was left proud, yet a touch philosophical, in defeat after the four-year-old gelding finished second to 2013 German Derby winner Lucky Speed in the American St Leger at the Chicago circuit.
Oliver will now keep Panama Hat in Group company, with the KPMG Enterprise Stakes at Leopardstown on September 12 and the Palmerstown House Estate Irish St Leger a day later at the Curragh potential objectives.
The County Tyrone handler said: "If you were beaten three or four lengths, you'd say 'There you go', but to be done three-parts of a length, I was ever so slightly rueful.
"It was good fun, though, and I've absolutely no complaints as the horse did us proud - he ran a great race and was given a super ride.
"Going into this year, he was still a handicapper, but he is now living up to the rating he has acquired, which is great to see.
"I do feel he's a genuine Group-race contender, and it may be he is more effective over a mile and a half.
"He's got entries on Irish Champions Weekend, and there's also the option to travel again as we know he handles it so well.
"We won't go mad this year, though, as I do think there could be still a bit more improvement in him."
