Smart Magna Grecia Filly Draws Clear To Maiden Victory

Thursday saw the promising National Lady (3f Magna Grecia – Cheetah, by Tiger Hill) gain a well-deserved maiden win in good style at Fairyhouse.

The Ger Lyons-trained bay caught the eye on debut at Leopardstown last July, when finishing third to subsequent Group winner Brilliant (Gleneagles). She filled the same place behind another subsequent Stakes winner next time out and went close on her seasonal return.

She was sent off favourite against colts on Thursday, as she dropped down to six furlongs and travelled strongly throughout under colin Keane. Asserting from two furlongs out, she was ridden clear soon after and ran on well to score by three lengths.

“She did that well,” Ger Lyons said after the race. “Obviously we'll start thinking about black-type. We'll bring her home and make a plan and see how she progresses.”

National Lady was bought as a yearling for €130,000 and now carries the colours of Mark Dobbin. Bred by Woodnook Farm, she hails from the first crop of Magna Grecia.