France Shows His Grit in Curragh's Tetrarch

Mrs. John Magnier's France, ridden by Seamus Heffernan, surprised even-money favorite Abunawwas in the Group III Rock Of Gibraltar EBF Tetrarch Stakes for 3-year-olds at the Curragh on Sunday.

One of two runners for Aidan O'Brien, France, at 7-2, reached leader Al Turf a furlong out in the seven-furlong test and ran on well to win by three-quarters of a length over Al Turf in a five-horse field. Dalcassian was third.

Kevin Prendergast's Abunawwas rallied from last in the final two furlongs but failed to last and struggled home fourth, beaten by 3 1/2 lengths.

English-bred France is by Desert Prince from the Rainbow Quest mare Hyperspectra.