Coolmore shuttler Wootton Bassett (GB) featured overnight in Ireland where his undefeated colt Atomic Jones took out the Group II Leopardstown Champion Juvenile Stakes (1m).
Having just his second start following a debut victory at the Curragh in June, the Ger Lyons trained Atomic Jones relished the mile trip and was strong to the line to beat Aidan O’Brien’s Galileo colt Stone Age by a head.
“I'd say he's a smart horse, plenty of ability,” Lyons said.
“He's done that without even knowing he's done it, just pure raw ability. I think he's typical of the sire, good, strong and dependable.
“He's done for the year I'd say, he's a real horse for next year over a mile plus. He's a big huge baby and I didn't even expect to be running him this year, never mind winning two.”
Purchased for 95,000 guineas from the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book 1 by Gaelic Bloodstock, Atomic Jones is the first winner from Loyale, a winning half-sister by Turtle Bowl to Group winners Little Treasure and Keep Quiet.
He is the 23rd stakes-winner for Wootton Bassett, who is covering a stellar book of mares in Australia this spring at a fee of $71,500.
