Milan Mare Makes Winning Debut For Henderson

Tuesday saw the Nicky Henderson-trained Marie’s Rock (4m Milan - By The Hour, by Flemensfirth) justify strong market support when winning the Mares’ Bumper at Ffos Las.

Another daughter of Milan, The Milan Girl, was sent off favourite for the two mile contest, following her taking win at Bangor last time out, though Marie’s Rock must have impressed at home to go off second favourite on her racecourse debut.

Ridden to track the leaders by Nico de Boinville, she was travelling well three furlongs from home when she produced a challenge. Leading over a furlong out, she ran on well to beat Balladame by two lengths and three quarters, with another length back to the favourite in third.

Marie’s Rock was bought by Highflyer Bloodstock with owners Middleham Park Racing for €35,000 at the Goffs Landrover Sale. Bred by Daniel Breen, she becomes the first winner out of useful chaser By The Hour, winner of the valuable Foxrock Handicap Chase at Leopardstown.