Solita and Barry O'Neill are clear approaching the line© Photo Healy Racing
Solita overcame a ten-month break to record a shock 25/1 victory in the bumper at Downpatrick.
The Paul Nolan-trained mare showed little in two bumper outings last year including at this venue but she put those poor shows well behind her with a commanding performance here.
Barry O’Neill sent the daughter of King’s Theatre to the front over two furlongs out, and she quickly went clear when asked for an effort.
The five-year-old stayed on strongly up the hill to beat Cut Loose by seven lengths, with News For Pascal in third. Better Part Of Me proved disappointing and the 11/10 favourite was soundly beaten in sixth with Nina Carberry reporting that her mount hung left throughout.
The winning rider said afterwards, “I think she was weak before and had her problems. Paul fancied her tonight. She's a very nice mare for the future."
(MG & AM)
