Soldier Of Fortune Mare Bolts Up In Grade 2 Novice Hurdle

The hugely progressive Flying Fortune (5m Soldier Of Fortune – Turbo Linn, by Turbo Speed) produced a career-best performance when drawing clear in the Grade 2 Persian War Novices’ Hurdle at Chepstow on Friday.

Peter and Michael Bowen’s mare was sent off favourite following a hat-trick of wins completed in a valuable Class 2 last month. Held up by James Bowen, the sole mare in the field was pushed along to lead after the second last and soon boasted a clear advantage. Eased down close home, she led by seven and a half lengths on the line.

“This is a race I’ve always wanted to win and she was the best chance we’ve ever had in it so I’m delighted,” Peter Bowen said. “She’s taken a while to get the hang of things but is a good mare. She has a lovely attitude and has been very straightforward to train.”

On future plans, Bowen commented, “She’s been busy and could do with six weeks off. We would have to look at the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle in March.”

Flying Fortune is owned by Fortune N’Fame Fillies and was bred by Cathal Ennis.