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Gary Carson

Gary Carson

Hassah looks smart as Deegan saddles 1-2

Tue 16th Sep 2014, 16:02

Hassah and Colm O'Donoghue win in styleHassah and Colm O'Donoghue win in style
© Photo Healy Racing

Hassah sprang a 20/1 shock when running out an impressive winner of the median auction fillies maiden at Listowel.

The Paul Deegan-trained daughter of Halling had been well-beaten when pitched into Listed company on her debut at the Curragh at the end of last month.

She knew much more today, however, picking up front-running stable-mate Magic Of Christmas over a furlong out and powering clear in the closing stages for a stunning seven-and-a-half length victory under Colm O'Donoghue.

“People thought I was losing my marbles running her at the Curragh but it was too bad to be true and she barely broke out of a canter,” said Deegan.

“I think it was a case of stage-fright although the cheekpieces certainly helped today. She's a very smart filly but she's very much on the leg.

“The progeny generally progress really well and we'll see how she is after a few weeks but it's possible she may not run again this year.”

Deegan added of the runner-up: “If you take Hassah out she would have been a good winner. She'll have her day too hopefully.”

The UAE ambassador to Ireland is involved in the winning Lootah Partnership.

The Dermot Weld-trained Summaya was sent off the 7/2 favourite but made little impression after missing the start, only beating one home.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)

1st
20/1
Tote €24.30 €6.50
2nd
7.5L
7/1
€2.10
3rd
2.25L
8/1
€2.10
4th
1.25L
8/1
bf
1L
7/2Fav
About Gary Carson
Gary started out as a trainee/assistant journalist with the Sporting Life newspaper and has worked in the racing industry for over 25 years. He has been with the Press Association since 2013 and won the Irish Field Nap Table in 2016. He enjoys working with horses and trained his own horse, Mamaslittlestar, to win a point-to-point in 2019.