Optic (Expert Eye X Sliabh Luachra) finished second on four occasions in 2023 and his connections must have wondered if their luck would ever turn when he was beaten by just one length at Kempton on the 6^th January when denied a clear run in the final furlong.  He made a fast appearance just seven days later and with Hayley Turner again in the saddle he recorded his first win.  With the longer straight at Wolverhampton Hayley had him in front 1f out and went on to win by a comfortable 1½ lengths.  Further wins in this handicap company look to be on the cards.

Optik is the third runner and third winner out of the mare Sliabh Luachra – Sliabh Luachra being a daughter of Lucina the dam of Mehmas.  Her fourth foal by Dark Angel has yet to run and her yearling by No Nay Never was sold in Book One for Stg. £240,000.  Sliabh Luachra is in foal to Lope de Vega.