Santa Rossa winning at Leopardstown© Photo Healy Racing
Smart bumper performer Santa Rossa is set to make her hurdling debut over the Christmas period.
Dermot McLoughlin's charge was a Grade 2 winner at Leopardstown's Dublin Racing Festival last season.
She subsequently finished third behind Mcfabulous at Aintree before rounding off her campaign when fifth to Coolreevy in top level company at Punchestown.
The daughter of Jeremy will be aimed at a maiden hurdle over the festive period and options are open for the exciting prospect.
“She'll probably run at Christmas, she should be ready to run in a maiden hurdle then,” said McLoughlin.
“She has options and could even go to Down Royal on St Stephen's Day as her owner (Pat Conway) is from the north.
“Her bumper form was very solid and she ran in some cracking bumpers.
“You'd like to think she can step up now over hurdles. There are a few nice novice mares gone by the wayside as well.
“I'm not saying the division will be weak but you might not have to be absolutely top level to be good there.
“Hopefully she keeps in one piece. The thing about the owner is that he likes to bring them on slow and there is never a rush. He's all about the horses and taking our time so it makes my life easy.”
