This One's For Mike

Mike certainly would be proud of Burlington Gate's win, having been patient with the promising four-year-old who'd had no luck at her previous few starts.

Settling well back from a tricky wide gate, the daughter of The Autumn Sun appreciated a step up in distance at her fourth run in.

Always in clear running courtesy of a lovely ride by the in-form Blake Shinn, Burlington Gate showed that distance is certainly her forte; this being her second win at the 2000m.

It was an emotional victory for all involved with Mike being Burlington Gate's managing part owner.

Blake Shinn has been riding for Ballymore for many years and he fought back the tears post race.

"This win means a lot more than others," he said. "When I got the call from Anthony this morning I thought the best way to honour Michael was to win this race and it is fitting that we've been able to pull that off."

"We formed a great relationship and friendship - he was great to ride for; so kind, so loyal."

"His loss is tragic for the industry, for the stable, for his family. He leaves an indelible legacy."

Burlington Gate was the second of Ballymore's runners on this sad day with First Appearance also running well, the full sister to the stable's multiple Gr.1 winner Tofane finishing off strongly four an eye-catching fourth at just her second run this campaign.

"She is a horse Mike had a lot of time for and it was really good to see her show a glimpse of that talent today," Glen said.

"It's a shame she drew so badly and had to get so far back with Kyneton a hard track to give them a start on."

"She is still a little bit immature, still improving and we will see the best of her as she gets up over further - she is a horse on the way up."

Everyone at Ballymore has been moved by the many messages of condolence and the tributes we are seeing online. We know Mike moved many people and we take comfort that he will be so fondly remembered by so many.