Irish Oaks next for unbeaten Sparan Nua Sparan Nua maintained her unbeaten record and booked her ticket for the Juddmonte Irish Oaks at the Curragh next month when justifying the step up to Group 3 level in the Darley Munster Oaks Stakes at Cork. The Jim Bolger-trained filly was purchased by Newtown Anner Stud after gaining her two previous wins under Declan McDonogh at Naas and Gowran and was stepping up in trip here to 1m4f. Nyra was sent to the front early in the straight, but her partner Dylan Browne McMonagle lost his whip well over a furlong out. Sparan Nua gradually wore her down inside the final furlong getting up in the closing stages under Nathan Crosse to score by half a length. Bosphorus Rose was a further two and a quarter lengths away in third. Bolger said, “She is still learning and was green enough today. We didn't get after her last year as she was a little bit weak, and today it is only her third run. "Before she ran this year, we did a couple of bits of work with her, but I wasn't sure where she fitted. I said we'd give her a run to find out and that's why she was 25/1 the first day. "She has a good attitude, and I'd say the Irish Oaks is where we'll go now. It was a good performance, and it is my first runner for Newtown Anner Stud." Crosse said, “Declan McDonogh contacted me on Monday evening and I initially thought he had sent the wrong text message! I am light (for today's 8st 8lb) but it is a brilliant privilege to get on her. "I had one previous ride for Mr Bolger, at Roscommon last year, and have never been in the yard but have an association with PJ Colville (racing manager to Newtown Anner Stud). "Declan could have ridden her at today's weight but unfortunately for him, he had a ride for Joseph O'Brien, who was unfortunately a non-runner. He gave me all the information, so I'd say he'll be happy for me while 'Flash' Power, Kevin Manning and Mr Bolger all filled me with confidence. "The ceiling is the height for her, and she can go all the way. "I highly doubt I'll keep the ride but was very happy to get the spin today." Quotes by Tom Weekes
