Magnifique makes winning start for Kelly Femme Magnifique made a winning start for trainer Harry Kelly in the beginners chase at Tramore, for horses rated 120 or less over timber. Danny Gilligan, stepping in for the spare ride, producing her with a well-timed challenge over the last fence. The 7/1 shot stayed on strongly in the closing stages to post a four-and-a-quarter length win over Presenting Lad. “I’m delighted to have her. I’m very grateful that the lads, the Dillon Quirke syndicate, sent her to me,” said Kelly. “She came from Paul Kiely’s and came in great nick. We got the rub of the green today and she was game. “I’m delighted for the lads, it’s unfortunate for Cian who was due to ride her but Danny Gilligan did a great job. He sat where he was comfortable, let her find her feet and came home well. “She’ll probably stay a bit further. “She works better than 105 horse. We have her about six weeks and I said she’ll either bring it to the course or she won’t. “If you were a backing man you’d be backing her on her work, but I don’t back horses. You don’t know with horses that are after being in a couple of yards. “I’m gutted for Cian but delighted for him at the same time as he’s part of the syndicate. He owns the mare and leased her out.”
