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Steinbeck justified his tall reputation in cosy fashion on Wednesday when taking the 6f Pat Dunlea Memorial Race at Naas by two-and-a-half lengths from Gold Bubbles.

In the process, the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt became the second winner from 11 runners in Britain and Ireland bythe unbeaten 2,000 Guineas winner Footstepsinthesand. The son of Giant's Causeway, who stands at Coolmore for €12,500, was represented by his first winner last month when Walkingonthemoon landed his debut at Newbury.

Purchased for 250,000gns last year by Charlie Gordon-Watson, Steinbeck is the most expensive yearling sold at auction so far by his sire. He was also a pricey foal, selling for 100,000gns to Ashtown House Stud.

Bred by Dr D. Harron, Steinbeck is a half-brother to the Listed-placed Varenka, and out of the unplaced Danehill mare Castara Beach, a sister to Group 3 winner Hill Hopper, herself the dam of top-class miler Nannina.

- Racing Post