Amy Murphy and Archie Watson runners finished fourth and fifth respectively.
Rebel Diamond, under the guidance of jockey Billy Lee, continued his dazzling run of form, securing a third consecutive victory in style at the Ballyhane Blenheim Stakes at Fairyhouse. The win solidifies his growing reputation, with the colt taking another significant step forward in what has been a breakthrough season for him and his connections.
The chestnut colt, trained by Natalia Lupini and owned in partnership with Craig Bryson, has blossomed this season, reaching new heights with each outing. After breaking his maiden at Naas in August and following it up with another triumph at Cork, Rebel Diamond faced his toughest test yet as he stepped up to Listed level competition in this seven-runner field.
Trainer's partner Craig Bryson was elated by Rebel Diamond's continued progression, commenting, "He's progressing well, he won very well in Cork, and quick ground is the key to him. It was a nice race here today and he seemed to win easy. We're very happy with him."
Rebel Diamond comes through the pack in commanding fashion, finishing powerfully to take victory in the Listed Ballyhane Blenheim Stakes, for the duo of @wjlee24786 and Miss Natalia Lupini 🥇 pic.twitter.com/W2EUXUzFte
— Horse Racing Ireland (@HRIRacing) September 23, 2024
Indeed, Rebel Diamond made his task at Fairyhouse look straightforward, despite facing stiff competition from British raiders and fellow challengers. The field was stacked with talent, but it was Rebel Diamond who stayed composed, traveling with ease and quickening when it mattered most.
"He has a good attitude, travels well, and quickens well," Bryson added. "Billy [Lee] said he won as he liked there today, and we're happy that there is more to come from him."
The Ballyhane Blenheim Stakes, held over six furlongs, saw Rebel Diamond priced at 4-1, a reflection of both his improving form and the challenge he faced against seasoned competitors. British raiders Vingegaard, ridden by Hollie Doyle and trained by Archie Watson, as well as Itsatenfromlen, trained by Amy Murphy, were among those vying for the top spot.
The race began with a steady pace, with Lee opting for patience. Rebel Diamond settled near the outside of the field, carefully conserving energy for a late surge. As the runners turned for home and the final stretch approached, it was clear that several horses were in contention, with a cluster of competitors jostling for the lead. Vingegaard and Itsatenfromlen made their moves, looking strong as they attempted to assert dominance, but Rebel Diamond had other plans.
Displaying a calm and calculated approach, Billy Lee began to ask more of his mount as they rounded the bend. Rebel Diamond responded, showing a turn of foot that left his rivals unable to keep pace. As the field closed in on the finish, Rebel Diamond lengthened his stride and surged past One Smack Mac to clinch victory by three-quarters of a length.
Bryson and the team couldn't have been more pleased, especially as they continue to assess Rebel Diamond's potential future. "We'll have a look and see what’s next, but he's probably had plenty of racing this year. We'll see how he is after that," said Bryson. The trainer's partner also hinted that the colt could be available for sale in the near future, adding, "He's probably for sale, so that's a nice one to pick up."
The colt's smooth transition from maiden to stakes winner is a testament to both his talent and the skillful training he's received. From taking a maiden victory at Naas to lifting the trophy at Cork and now securing his biggest win to date at Fairyhouse, Rebel Diamond’s development has been rapid and remarkable.
While the team will now consider what’s next for the chestnut colt, there’s no doubt that Rebel Diamond has made a name for himself this season. His potential for further improvement is evident, and if this is to be his last race of the year, it caps off a season filled with promise.
As the dust settles on Fairyhouse, the connections of Rebel Diamond will look back with pride on this latest achievement, knowing that whatever the future holds, they’ve uncovered a gem of a horse who has defied expectations at every turn.
