The historic Croker Cup made another appearance when it was awarded to John Varley’s Elusive Emir on Saturday afternoon. This format of one winner and no other placings proved a good compromise between a stallion parade and the ignominy of a stallion standing last in line.

Seven other sporting owners had also entered their stallions in the Longines Irish Champions Weekend-sponsored showcase. These were Clohamon Stud’s Island Commander, Barbara Hatton’s Golden Master, John Kirwan’s Spirit House, Eamon McArdle’s Mr Big Cat, Susan McCarthy’s Aristotle, James Murphy’s Near Dock and Kieran O’Gorman’s Munther. Judges Lady Carolyn Warren and David Redvers opted for the 11-year-old son of Elusive Quality as their winner, who according to his Clonbur owner has covered over 80 sport horse, thoroughbred and Connemara mares this season.

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