Far From Dandy (IRE) made a quietly encouraging start for the Stephen Thorne yard in the €30,000 3yo handicap over 7f at the Curragh on 24th May, finishing a close-up fourth off a mark of 80 in what looked a competitive renewal.

Formerly with George Boughey, the colt had already shown promise last autumn — notably winning a maiden at Yarmouth and going very close at Brighton when denied a clear run. That form has worked out well, and his reappearance here confirmed there’s more to come.

What was particularly pleasing was how he shaped in this deeper field. Having been ridden patiently in mid-division — a familiar tactic in his four starts to date — he was asked to quicken up in a race that developed down both flanks, with the winner and third finishing strongly from off the pace. Far From Dandy briefly lost his position two furlongs out but was rebalanced and stayed on again late to grab fourth on the line. It’s the kind of performance that often gets missed on paper but speaks well of his attitude and stamina.

This was his first run for 219 days and a first run for a smaller yard, and the fact he outran several better-fancied rivals rated 86–96 suggests he’s up to winning off 80 in similar or slightly lesser company. The trainer switch may also open doors — he now looks likely to be campaigned more sparingly and with intent, rather than being run through developmental maidens.

He remains unexposed at 7f–1m on turf, and all his best work has come when the tempo lifts. He may benefit from a stronger pace or a step back up to a mile, especially on galloping tracks.

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Conclusion:

Far From Dandy is very much one to keep on side for Stephen Thorne. He’s well handicapped, has a likeable finishing style, and shaped as though he’d improve for the run. Look out for him in 3yo-only or open-age 0–85 turf handicaps through the summer — particularly if dropped in grade, or if the yard fits cheekpieces or considers more positive tactics.

📌 Mark of 80 could significantly underestimate him in the right race.