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Spirit proves tough on third maiden start

Tough Spirit (far side) beating JulienneTough Spirit (far side) beating Julienne
© Photo Healy Racing

Tough Spirit opened her account at the third attempt when just coming out best in a terrific finish to the Curragh ‘Where Champions Are Made’ Fillies Maiden.

The Iffraaj filly is the first foal out of One Spirit, a Listed-winning daughter of Invincible Spirit for Frank Dunne and Ann Marshall, and did her paddock value no harm with this narrow victory.

Thye 7/1 chance was one of five almost in a line inside the final furlong, and Shane Foley’s mount just got the better of Julienne by a nose. Intermedia was just a head further back in third.

Winning trainer Johnny Murtagh said, “I was a little bit disappointed at Leopardstown the last day but Colin did say the ground was a little bit quick for her.

“She should be a filly that will improve and she’s beautifully bred. She always showed a nice bit at home.

“She got away with the ground today but I think she will improve with a bit more ease in the ground. If we can find a nice fillies handicap now it would be a good stepping stone to see where she fits in.”

1st
7/1
Tote €8.10 €2.30
2nd
nose
11/2
€2.20
3rd
hd
9/2
€1.40
4th
1.25L
20/1
bf
2.5L
11/4Fav
About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.