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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

Storm flies home for Weld/Smullen

Sun 29th Mar 2015, 17:45

Stormfly (far side) just gets up to beat Mandamus and CorbataStormfly (far side) just gets up to beat Mandamus and Corbata
© Photo Healy Racing

Dermot Weld got the new turf season off to a winning start as Stormfly struck late in the 203rd Madrid Handicap at the Curragh.

Reigning champion Pat Smullen was seen to good effect as the Dark Angel filly responded to a strong drive getting up in the closing strides.

The field were well bunched a furlong out and, in what proved a real triumph for the handicapper, the 12/1 winner had just a head to spare at the line. Mandamus held every chance in second, while Corbata was just half a length further adrift in third.

Weld said, "She was stakes placed and we'll let her take her chance in the Group 3 1,000 Guineas Trial at Leopardstown. She has everything to gain and nothing to lose.

"She's tough and genuine, and a lovely filly to train. She loves soft ground."

Weld and Smullen went on to complete a double with Ashraf in the concluding mile maiden.

1st
12/1
Tote €7.80 €2.00
2nd
hd
25/1
€6.30
3rd
0.5L
7/1
€3.50
4th
nk
6/1
bf
hd
9/2Fav
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.