The ninth race on Saturday, August 23, 2025, honours former Derby and multiple Grade One winner, Distinctly Irish.
This nine-furlong and 25 yards Graded Stakes | Open Allowance pits together two leading thoroughbreds currently racing on the local track, Funcaandun and Barnaby.
The Quick Galloper’s assessment is given below in post-position order.
1 – POWER FROM ABOVE
Five-year-old chestnut mare by Key To Power out of Blufield
A stablemate of greater renown overshadows her presence. Power From Above has struggled to make an impact at this level and enters as a supporting act rather than a serious contender. Her role is functional, not competitive.
2 – FUNCAANDUN
Four-year-old bay colt (USA) by Klimt out of Fiftyshadesoffgrey
Funcaandun has surged into top form since placing third behind Barnaby in the Ian Levy Cup on April 5. Victories in the Mark My Word Trophy and She’s A Maneater Trophy have solidified his status. He’s thriving in training and should relish the extended trip. With stamina and class on his side, he’s primed to take on allcomers.
3 – NEO STAR
Six-year-old bay horse by Neolithic out of Angel Dreams
Neo Star’s recent efforts have lacked spark, and his overall record suggests he’ll struggle to keep pace with the leading lights. A minor role of haggling won the lead beckons.
4 – BLUE VINYL
Six-year-old chestnut horse by Bern Identity out of Blufield
Talented but tactically limited in this company. Blue Vinyl has the credentials to finish in the frame but lacks the firepower to threaten the top tier. Expect a solid, if unspectacular, run.
5 – GIRVANO
Three-year-old bay colt (USA) by Girvano out of Summer in Midway
This importee has climbed the ranks with consistency and now steps into the deep end. The Graded Stakes | Open Allowance level marks a new chapter in his development. He’ll learn plenty, but winning may be a stretch.
6 – BARNABY
Four-year-old bay colt (USA) by Tapiture out of Giants Diva
Barnaby returns after a 140-day layoff, having secured his spot in the 2025 Mouttet Mile. Known for his late surges and tactical patience, Barnaby is tailor-made for this two-turn test. His workouts have been sharp, and his connections are confident. Expect him to be flying late.
7 – MAMMA MIA
Five-year-old chestnut mare by Soul Warrior out of Princess Geeta
The designated speedball of the field, Mamma Mia will likely dictate the early tempo. However, her stamina limitations over this distance are well documented. She’ll blaze early but may fade when the real running begins. Her duel with Neo Star—DaCosta vs Nunes—could set the stage for their more accomplished stablemates, Funcaandun and Barnaby, to take control.
THE QUICK GALLOPER’S VERDICT
This renewal of the Distinctly Irish Stakes is a true clash of titans. Mamma Mia will blaze early, but her stamina limitations leave the door wide open for the closers. Blue Vinyl and Girvano may pick up the pieces, but the real battle lies between Funcaandun and Barnaby. Both are in peak condition, both relish the distance, and both are trained by masters of the craft.
Funcaandun has momentum and tactical speed. Barnaby has class, rest, and a devastating late kick.
VERDICT: Barnaby to storm home late and edge Funcaandun in a thrilling finish. Blue Vinyl to complete the trifecta.
