First Start A Winning One For Holy Roman Emperor Filly

The Jessica Harrington-trained Justina (2f Holy Roman Emperor - Mary McPhee, by Makfi) continued her trainer’s fine record with juveniles when scoring on debut at Roscommon on Monday.

One of eight to line up for the seven furlong maiden, she raced towards the back of the field under Tom Madden and began to make headway over two furlongs out. Gaining on the leader entering the final furlong, she overcame signs of greenness to lead 150 yards from the line and beat the favourite Potala Palace by half a length.

Justina is owned by Sir Peter Vela and Mrs Yvonne Nicoll, with Vela having bred the filly in partnership with Richmond and Jeremy Gompertz. She is the first foal out of the dam, a two-year-old winner herself, and a half-sister to Group 3 performer Mary’s Daughter.