Bucanero Fuerte fends them all off at the Curragh

Bucanero Fuerte secured a game front-running success in the Group Three FBD Hotels And Resorts Phoenix Sprint Stakes at the Curragh.

The four-year-old won the Group One Phoenix Stakes at this fixture in 2023 and after a mixed run of luck last year, he was retired to stand at stud.

However, Bucanero Fuerte’s stallion career was unsuccessful and he returned to the care of Adrian Murray, winning at Naas in May before a setback derailed subsequent plans at Royal Ascot.

Back in top form for this contest, David Egan took the initiative early on and while Art Power tried to match him, Bucanero Fuerte (11-2) looked to have his measure with a furlong to run.

My Mate Alfie and Kind Of Blue both made their bids for glory in the final of six furlongs, but Bucanero Fuerte was just too strong, going on to win by a length and quarter.

Owner Kia Joorabchian, who runs his horses under the Amo Racing banner, said: “A lot of credit to Adrian (Murray) and Robson (Aguiar) for the training performance there and David gave him an unbelievable ride – just the way he likes to be ridden.

“He’s a tough horse who has given us a lot of joy and a lot of tough days as well with health scares. He had a colic issue at Ascot (this year).

“I’m glad to see him back happy on the track. We’re definitely not taking him out of Ireland now for a while!

“He could be aimed at the Flying Five as he loves the Curragh.”

Looking forward to the second half of the season, Joorabchian added: “We have much deeper pedigrees and I’m expecting a better second half and we’ll be in a very good place to lead into next year.”