Racing: Stud refreshes St Ninian

ST NINIAN became the latest horse to return refreshed from a spell at stud when winning the River Trent Conditions Stakes at Nottingham yesterday.

Environment Friend's prominent run in the Coronation Cup at Epsom last week showed that it is possible to mix careers at stud and on the track. St Ninian's success yesterday came just 24 hours after covering his latest mare, and in the face of severe technical problems.

'The bit slipped through his mouth as he left the stalls and Steve (Maloney) could hardly ride him,' said Tim Easterby, son of St Ninian's trainer, Peter. But it was not enough to stop the 3-1 chance taking up the running two out and running on to hold the favourite, Peto, by a length and a half.

Kevin Darley overlooked the attractions of Nottingham and Pontefract in favour of a trip to Leopardstown, and was rewarded with a 71-1 double which included success in the IR pounds 25,000 Group Three Cara Ballyogan Stakes.

Darley piloted David Barron's Sea Gazer to a length defeat of Bradawn Breever, with Jack Berry's Palacegate Episode in third.