Smart Juvenile Winner By No Nay Never

Merrily (2f No Nay Never – Caponata, by Selkirk) shaped like a black-type performer when winning the fillies’ maiden at Naas on Wednesday.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained bay finished a promising fourth on debut earlier this month and was sent off favourite to win her second start under Ryan Moore. Racing prominently throughout the six furlong contest, she led from two furlongs out and was ridden when challenged a furlong from home. Running on well, she was pushed out to score by a length and a quarter.

“She's a smart filly,” commented Ballydoyle representative Chris Armstrong. “It was Ryan's first time sitting on her and he really liked her. She's probably put herself in the mix for the Silver Flash Stakes and Ryan feels a step up in trip will definitely help her. She's one to look forward to for the backend.”

Owned by Coolmore partners, Merrily was bought by Avenue Bloodstock as a yearling for $325,000. The daughter of No Nay Never was bred by Lynch Bages and Camas Park Stud.