The Gurkha Filly Justifies Lofty Entry On Debut

The well-bred Tosen Lydia (2f The Gurkha - Early Addition, by Makfi) justified strong market support to make a winning debut in Thursday’s fillies’ maiden at Bellewstown.

Racing towards the back of the field for much of the mile trip, the Joseph O’Brien-trained bay made headway from three furlongs out and improved into second entering the final furlong. Ridden to lead, she stayed on well to win by a length and three quarters from Cyclamen (Mastercraftsman), with over three lengths back to the third horse.

Speaking after the race, winning rider Shane Crosse said, “I’m pleased as it’s her first day at school and she’s done it well. I’m delighted the way she did it and I think she won a bit snug in the end. Joseph’s horses usually improve from their first run and hopefully she will progress.”

Joseph O’Brien won last year’s running with subsequent Group 1 winner Pretty Gorgeous and has entered Tosen Lydia in the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes. From the second crop of The Gurkha, she was bred by Michael Cunningham out of a half-sister to the top-class Love (Galileo).