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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Progressive stayer Shamida has Group 1 aspirations

Sun 20th Aug 2023, 17:38

Shamida (left) beating Dawn Rising
Shamida (left) beating Dawn Rising
© Photo Healy Racing

Dermot Weld holds Shamida in high regard and she may now be aimed at the highest level after landing the Comer Group International Irish St Leger Trail Stakes at the Curragh.

The Aga Khan homebred daughter of Australia faced three rivals, all trained by Joseph O’Brien, after Eldar Eldarov (illness) and Library (change in going) were both absentees.

Chris Hayes sent the well-backed 5/4 favourite to the front well over a furlong out but she had to stay well to hold off the challenge of Dawn Rising by half-a-length.

The pair pulled six lengths clear of the front-running Okita Soushi in third.

Weld said, “She was in Cork on Friday night but we withdrew her because of the ground. She’s a good actioned filly and would never want the ground too soft.

“I’d say she will have one more run this year and I’d say it will be the Prix Royallieu, it’s the Group 1 mile and six for fillies and mares. It’s kind of written for her.

“This is a very game, tough three-year-old. She’s an immature filly and I think she will improve.

“Two of the horses she faced today won at Royal Ascot and it was a very good trial.

“She’s a stayer with speed.”

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.