Poetic Flare pips Master Of The Seas to QIPCO 2000 Guineas glory

QIPCO British Champions Series got off to a thrilling start as Poetic Flare broke Godolphin hearts to claim the first Classic of the season, the 2021 QIPCO 2000 Guineas for Kevin Manning and Jim Bolger.

Sired by 2013 QIPCO 2000 Guineas winner Dawn Approach, Poetic Flare emulated his father – but was made to fight all the way by a gallant Master Of The Seas and William Buick.

? Jim Bolger & @kmanning910 combined to land their second Qipco 2000 Guineas at @NewmarketRace on Saturday

? 2021 – Poetic Flare

? 2013 – Dawn Approach

The French or Irish 2000 Guineas now awaits Poetic Flare pic.twitter.com/MGCbkeKncC

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 4, 2021

It meant the QIPCO 2000 Guineas will head back to Ireland this year. However, not to a stable with a trainer named ‘O’Brien’ as many had predicted in the build up.

Instead Jim Bolger’s colt took the prize in a compelling finish. Master Of The Seas, Poetic Flare and Luky Vega drew clear from the field to fight out the closing stages.

Master Of The Seas looked most likely, however Poetic Flare got his head down right when it mattered. The photo finish going his way, for a delighted Kevin Manning.

For Jim Bolger it means that he picks up the coveted prize for a second time in his training career, having previously won the race in 2013 with Dawn Approach.