Cheltenham Aim For Milan’s Latest Listed Winner

Saturday saw Marie’s Rock (7m Milan - By The Hour, by Flemensfirth) lead home a 1-2 for Coolmore NH sires in the Listed Mares’ Hurdle at Warwick.

The Nicky Henderson-trained mare was sent off joint-favourite under Aidan Coleman, who held her up at the back of the field for much of the two mile and five furlong contest. Improving from three out, she disputed at the second last and was ridden clear on the run-in. Running on well, she won by three lengths from Get A Tonic (Getaway), who finished nine lengths clear of the field.

Speaking after the race, Middleham Park Racing’s Tom Palin confirmed that the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham was next on the agenda for the winner. “We've always rated Marie’s Rock,” he said. “It's brilliant to see her back at this level. She really battled for us and answered every question we asked of her.”

Marie’s Rock has now won five of her ten starts and is a dual Listed winner, as well as having placed at Grade 2 level last season. The daughter of Grange Stud sire Milan was bred by Daniel Breen out of useful chaser By The Hour (Flemensfirth).