TDN RISING STARS

May 6, 2023 - Naas, Msw, EUR €12,500, 8.0F, .0000

Johannes Brahms (GB), C, 2, 2021 by Siyouni (Fr)

1st Dam: Illaunmore, by Shamardal
2nd Dam: Illaunglass (Ire), by Red Clubs (Ire)
3rd Dam: Esterlina (Ire), by Highest Honor (Fr)

Owner: Tabor/Smith/Magnier/Westerberg/Brant
Breeder: Chasemore Farm (GB)
Trainer: Aidan O'Brien

There was a strong vibe about Ballydoyle's Johannes Brahms (GB) (Siyouni {Fr}-Illaunmore, by Shamardal) ahead of Saturday's six-furlong Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race at Naas and he did not disappoint to show distinct promise and earn TDN Rising Star status. Jumping smartly under Seamie Heffernan to race on the front end, the 5-6 favourite was kept company by the Ger Lyons-trained fellow newcomer Tourist (GB) (Zoustar {Aus}) and was briefly headed inside the two. Battling against the rail, the 200,000gns Book 1 purchase who races for Coolmore, Westerberg and Brant eked out a half-length success.

"I'd say they are two nice colts and I'd like to own either," the winning rider said. "He was sleepy and green going to the start, is quick and is going to get quicker. When they are strong like this they can go to Ascot." Stable representative Chris Armstrong added of the bay, whose sire's eight TDN Rising Stars include the G1 Moyglare Stud S. winner Tahiyra (Ire), "He's a smashing colt, he's got plenty of size about him and has a lot of class and speed. He showed a bit of greenness throughout, at home they haven't been off the bridle, and they penny hasn't dropped with this fella yet."

"There is a lot to like about him," Armstrong continued. "Seamus thought he had plenty of gears for a horse his size and he cruises very well. We'll try and get one more run into him before Ascot and he's one to look forward to. We thought that trip might have been his minimum but Seamus said he's versatile, five or six and he can go up further. From the three home he was never really travelling, he was a bit lost, but once Seamus got him gathered up he found the line well and kept stretching out. Once the penny drops, he should be lovely at any trip."