Soldier Of Fortune Mare Doubles Up Over Fences

Sunday saw Litterale Ci (7m Soldier Of Fortune – Cigalia, by Red Ransom) gain her second win over fences in the Mares’ Novices’ Chase at Warwick.

The Harry Fry-trained mare was sent off favourite following her authoritative success against the opposite sex in a Beginners’ Chase in October. With Aidan Coleman back on board, she was ridden to chase the leader and travelled strongly as they approached the second last. Leading at the final fence, she was pushed out to win by four and a quarter lengths, with the front pair drawing 12 lengths clear of the third.

It marked an eighth career success overall for the JP McManus-owned bay, who was purchased privately following two wins on the flat for Mickael Delzangles. Bred by Francoise Perree, she is a half-sister to dual winner Winterhawk (Dylan Thomas) and comes from the family of Derby hero Oath.

Soldier Of Fortune originally stood in France and transferred to the Beeches Stud in 2016. The best is yet to come from the promising young sire, who has covered bumper books in Ireland and is expected to impress with his first Irish crop at this year’s store sales. He stands for a fee of €8,000.