TDN RISING STARS

October 14, 2005 - CHANTILLY, Race , Mdn, EUR €18,000, 1m, 2.5000, gd

Balor (Fr), C, 2005, by Hernando (Fr)

1st Dam: Visions on Space (Ire), by Lure
2nd Dam: Or Vision, by Irish River (Fr)
3rd Dam: Luv Luvin', by Raise a Native

Owner: Niarchos Family
Breeder: Niarchos Family
Trainer: Pascal Bary

Balor was the subject of encouraging home reports and did not disappoint supporters with an explosive display in this racecourse bow. Rated fifth through the muddling early fractions, the 9-2 chance eased into a stalking third at halfway. Full of run at the top of the stretch, the homebred chestnut was guided to the front inside the final quarter and powered clear from one tap of Christophe Lemaire's persuader to hit the wire an impressive five lengths ahead of Gingerbread Boy (Ire) (Desert Prince {Ire}). “I like him a lot and he won in very good style, confirming his good morning work,” explained trainer Pascal Bary. “I will probably put him away for next year after an excellent education today.”