Diamond Stakes at Dundalk next for Panama Hat says trainer Andy Oliver
Monday 21 September 2015 12:45, UK
The Diamond Stakes at Dundalk on October 2 is a potential target for Panama Hat following another admirable effort in defeat at Leopardstown last weekend.
One of the success stories of the Irish Flat season last year after winning five races, the four-year-old has found life a little tougher in better company this term, but has still enjoyed a fine campaign.
After winning a Roscommon Listed prize in July, Panama Hat was only narrowly denied in the American St Leger at Arlington Park in Chicago and returned to his homeland to chase home the high-class Fascinating Rock in the Enterprise Stakes.
Trainer Andrew Oliver said: "The rain came and the ground didn't suit him in Leopardstown, but he ran a solid race in defeat.
"The winner relished the ground and at the end of the day we were beaten by a good horse, so we're very pleased with him.
"The only engagement he has at the moment is the Group Three Diamond Stakes at Dundalk (October 2).
"There are a couple of Group Threes in England that might be a possibility, including the Cumberland Lodge at Ascot, but he does need good ground.
"We're getting to the stage of the season where we'll probably pull up stumps for the year before too long, which suits me fine.
"He's been competing at stakes level all year and running up to his mark. He's a very solid campaigner."
