Stack Ace Wallops Rivals

Noll Wallop (left) wins the 2000 trial.

Noll Wallop (7-2) ran out an convincing winner of the Leopardstown 2,000 Guineas Trial Stakes to continue trainer Tommy Stack's fine start to the season.

The Cashel handler sent out a four-timer at the Curragh last Sunday and Noll Wallop added to that with a landslide success in the Group Three contest.

Brought wide by Wayne Lordan in the straight, the High Chaparral colt burst clear to win by three-and-a-half lengths from Aidan O'Brien's Viscount Nelson with Famous Warrior third.

He was introduced into the betting for the Irish 2,000 Guineas at 14-1 by William Hill.

Lordan said: "He's always worked well since he was a two-year-old but this was a step up from his maiden win.

"We weren't sure about that, but we knew he'd stay well and he handles the ground. We were just hoping for a big run and he delivered well today.

"There were only a few runners and I hadn't enough daylight for him. He carried me into the race, but I thought I might have got there a bit soon. When I let him down he picked up and went to the line well.

"He deserves a crack at the Guineas after that. He's an improving horse, so if he improves a bit more that will do.

"The horses are in good order, let's hope they keep going."

Fozzy Stack, son and assistant to the winning trainer, said: "The Irish Guineas wasn't a consideration until about 10 minutes ago.

"The Irish Guineas and the Irish Derby could be the route we take and the Dante would also be a consideration."