There was a new feather in Kalanisi’s cap this weekend as he sired his 6th individual Grade 1 winner, with Brain Power landing the $450,000 American Grand National at Far Hills, New Jersey. This was the Nicky Henderson trained 8 year old’s first trip to the states and it was owner Michael Buckley’s shrewd idea to target this prestigious 2m5f event. In the hands of Nico De Boinville, Brain Power was recording his 8th career win and took his earnings to almost £500,000. Bred by Dave Harvey in North County Dublin, Brain Power was sold by Harvey to Warren Ewing at Tattersalls Derby Sale for €30,000.
This was a bitter sweet victory for all concerned as Brain Power was involved in a great battle with market leader Wicklow Brave for the last half mile of the race until sadly Wicklow Brave came to grief over the last obstacle and tragically sustained a broken shoulder and could not be saved. This was a terrible way for this ultra-versatile and talented 10 year old to go out and commiserations go out to all of his connections.