Balmont fourth in Singapore group one
Balmont Mast finished a close up fourth for Tara Stud's Derek Iceton in the Krisflyer International Sprint at Kranji racecourse in Singapore today.
The Meath horse was ridden by Bohermeen man Johnny Murtagh who will soon officially take up duties as a trainer although he is also keen to keep riding internationally.
Murtagh and Balmont Mast finished a closing fourth behind Lucky Nine despite having lots of ground to make up after missing the break in the six-furlong event and was in a photo for third place.
Both Murtagh and popular Dunshaughlin-based trained Eddie Lynam felt Balmont Mast was unlucky not to claim second.
'I just got a little bit squeezed at the gate which meant I was further back than ideal, but he's run his heart out. In a couple more strides he would have been second,' commented Murtagh.
'This horse had problems with his wind and it was his first race away from home on grass, we might get invited to Hong Kong and there is also the Breeders' Cup Sprint,' stated the trainer.
See battle for second, third and fourth (Balmont Mast red/white with stripped cap).
Conall Collier