Castletown Stud graduate Waterville (3c Camelot – Holy Moon, by Hernando) appeared to relish a step up in trip when getting off the mark at Limerick on Friday.
Placed on all his previous starts, the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt was sent off the even-money favourite for the two mile and one furlong contest. Racing in touch under Seamie Heffernan, he was pushed along to lead after passing the two furlong marker and soon drew clear to win by six lengths.
Representing Ballydoyle, Chris Armstrong said after the race, “Aidan has always liked him, he has worked well at home and has had a couple of good runs. He is starting to put it together and might have a bit of a rest now for a while and could come back for an autumn campaign.”
On future plans, he added, “There are plenty of good staying handicaps and something like the Great Voltigeur could also be an option. Hopefully he realises the potential that Aidan and the team have always held him in.”
Waterville was sold by Castletown Stud as a foal on behalf of breeder Razza del Velino, bringing €280,000 from MV Magnier.