Improving Soldier Of Fortune Mare Delivers On Return

The promising Derrylinda (5m Soldier Of Fortune - Talkin Madam, by Talkin Man) gained a deserved win over hurdles on her seasonal return at Cork.

The Gavin Cromwell-trained mare ran out an impressive winner of a bumper on debut and since placed twice over hurdles. Partnered by Keith Donoghue in Sunday’s maiden hurdle, the bay raced in midfield for much of the way and was switched right to make headway from three out. Drawing clear with the leader from the next, she leapt into the lead at the final flight and kept on strongly to score by three and a half lengths. The pair finished 14 lengths clear of the field.

“Derrylinda put up a good performance,” Donoghue commented after the race. “Gavin (Cromwell) must have thought she was a decent enough mare last season, but she just hadn't fully filled into herself. She's strengthened up now, so hopefully it's onwards and upwards.”

Owned by Patrick, M and S Dunphy, Derrlinda was bred by Maurice O’Brien.