Thrice and Medici Venus scored for top jockey and Aidan O’Brien.
In his debut appearance at Listowel’s Harvest Festival, three-time champion jockey Ryan Moore left a lasting impression, securing a double on day three of the prestigious meeting. Known for his global big-race successes, Moore added a new track to his extensive racing portfolio with a performance that highlighted his exceptional skill and adaptability.
Moore arrived at County Kerry with four well-fancied rides, and he wasted no time in making his mark. The racing world watched closely as he guided Thrice, an Aidan O’Brien-trained colt, to a commanding victory in the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden. Despite being relatively inexperienced, Thrice proved his potential with a decisive four-length win, justifying his status as the 1-4 favourite.
Speaking about Thrice’s performance, Moore was candid in his assessment: "He had a good run at the Curragh, but he’s still a bit babyish and was a little lost going around the bends." The son of Wootton Bassett showed immense promise, despite some minor inexperience, signaling he could be a horse to watch for in future events.
Moore’s anticipation was evident as he next took the reins aboard Mundi in the Listed Edmund And Josie Whelan Memorial Listowel Stakes. While hopes were high, the race didn’t unfold as expected. Mundi finished sixth, with victory going to Jessica Harrington’s Curvature, ridden masterfully by Gary Carroll.
📝 Ryan Moore ticks another one off the list pic.twitter.com/P5HFYJWlZ4
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) September 24, 2024
Carroll, stepping in for Colin Keane, who was unwell, seized the opportunity and delivered a stellar ride. Curvature dominated the race, moving smoothly with the pace and extending her lead in the closing stages to win by two and a quarter lengths over Princess Child. Reflecting on the performance, Carroll shared: “I won on her last year, and while she’s a bit tricky, she gave me a lovely ride today. The rain helped, and she liked the track.”
The conditions at Listowel appeared to suit the filly, and Carroll praised the track and the facilities, adding: "It’s a flat track, a bit quick and ridgy, but the horses seem to handle it well. And the heated weighing room is a nice touch!"
Although Mundi didn’t deliver the anticipated win, Moore quickly put the setback behind him, returning for his next challenge with determination. Teaming up once again with O’Brien, Moore piloted Medici Venus to victory in the MAC Hardware And Farm Supplies Irish EBF Rated Race. This time, it was a nail-biting finish, with Medici Venus just edging out The Marty Party by a short head in a thrilling conclusion.
The win was hard-fought, and Moore acknowledged the filly’s continued learning curve, saying, “She’s still plenty green and isn’t quite sure what to do with herself, but she’s obviously improving.” The jockey’s experience shone through as he coaxed every ounce of effort from Medici Venus, further underscoring his ability to extract top performances from developing horses.
Moore was gracious in his reflection on his first experience at Listowel, noting, “I’ve been well looked after, and it’s a nice place to come and visit. I’m only here today, but I was delighted to come.”
For Listowel, having a jockey of Moore’s stature at the festival was a significant coup. His success added an extra layer of excitement to an already vibrant event. With the Harvest Festival serving as a staple in the Irish racing calendar, Moore’s participation only further heightened its prestige, and his performance ensured that his name would be remembered fondly by the local racing community.
The Festival, known for its unique charm and fervent local support, has long been a favorite for racing enthusiasts. The victory of Curvature added to the local color, while the appearance of an international star like Moore provided a blend of global flair with the warmth of a community-centric race meeting.
As Moore reflected on his day at Listowel, it was clear that the experience had left a positive impression. His success with Thrice and Medici Venus marked a perfect introduction to the track, and while Mundi didn’t secure victory, the day was one of triumph for the British racing icon.
Ryan Moore's appearance at Listowel was a significant moment, not just for the Harvest Festival, but for the broader Irish racing scene. His ability to guide inexperienced horses to victory, like Thrice and Medici Venus, showcased his exceptional talent and patience. Moore’s debut at this intimate Irish track brought international attention, adding to the excitement of a festival beloved by local racing fans. This blend of global talent and local atmosphere highlights the diversity and richness of the racing world. Moore’s journey is a reminder that even the most celebrated jockeys are always discovering new tracks, new challenges, and new triumphs.
