Marie Philippe and Barry O'Neill © Photo Healy Racing
Jessica Harrington's newcomer Marie Philippe took the fillies' bumper in the hands of Barry O'Neill.
The daughter of Flemensfirth was strong in the market all day and was sent off joint second-favourite at 3/1.
She travelled well to hit the front early in the straight before quickly going a few lengths clear. Although tying up a little in the final 100 yards, she never looked in danger of being caught and scored by three parts of a length from Tilloughna who stuck to her task well in second.
Assistant trainer Kate Harrington said afterwards: “That was great and it's a nice tonic for Mum who is in hospital today. She's over the moon.
“That filly is only about 80 percent there and there is so much more improvement in her.
“I'd say we'll stick to bumpers this year and probably go to the Dublin Racing festival and try and get a bit of black-type for her. She's very stoutly bred.
“She's a big chaser for two of three years down the line and hurdles next season with her but we'll keep her on the Flat for the moment.
“She was very impressive and she's gorgeous. For a filly, the size of her, who is only four, she is really nice and very exciting.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
