Andrew Nelis racing

The Lir Jet and Ventura Tormenta both feature in what looks like being a top-class renewal of the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday. Middleham Park Racing have added the Richard Hannon-trained Ventura Tormenta to the Group One feature at a cost of 20,000 euros after his short-head success over The Lir Jet in last month’s Prix Robert Papin. The Michael Bell-trained The Lir Jet had previously beaten Hannon’s charge when winning the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot – on what was Ventura Tormenta’s debut – and is set to be in opposition again at the weekend. Hannon said: “Middleham Park were keen to take the race on because the Morny was already looking over-subscribed. I think this was a good opportunity for the horse to have a crack at a Group One. He has come back from France well and has never looked better. “He has put on weight and the whole experience of France will have done his confidence a lot of good. I think the track at the Curragh will suit him ...

Home Races Results Tips Free Bets News Watch TV Schedule Racecourses Members Benefits Members Tracker Notifications Betting Accounts Club Days Preferences Papin delight for Hannon and Middleham Park with Ventura Tormenta Sun 19 Jul 2020 Richard Hannon ’s decision to supplement  Ventura Tormenta  for the Darley Prix Robert Papin paid dividends as he edged out  The Lir Jet  in a thrilling finish at  Chantilly . Ventura Tormenta had finished over six lengths behind The Lir Jet at Royal Ascot in the Norfolk Stakes, but Hannon’s youngster was making his debut on that occasion. Since then he has been busy, winning at Yarmouth on Derby day and finishing a five-length fifth of 10 in the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket’s July Festival. Showing real tenacity and hardiness given he was having his fourth race in the space of a month, Ventura Tormenta looked a sitting duck as T...