Locust Grove third for Innovative Idea

Innovative Idea ran well again to finish third in the G3 Locust Grove Stakes over an extended mile on dirt at Churchill Downs, USA, on Saturday, September 17.

The four-year-old Bernardini filly, trained by Eoin Harty and ridden by Corey Lanerie, broke well from the outside draw of the six runners and came across to the inside rail to lead.

The Godolphin contender maintained the advantage until a furlong out and was one-paced in the closing stages in muddy conditions.

Innovative Idea, who has been victorious three times this year, was beaten a head and three lengths by the winner Engaginglee and runner-up Miss Pink Diva. The winning time came to 1m 46.24s.

Eoin Harty commented: "Innovative Idea ran her usual game race.

"She always tries very hard and is very ambitious, giving 110 per cent every time.

"The track came up a bit muddy and I think she was tired at end."