Westerner Mare Makes It Two From Two For New Stable

Skyace (5m Westerner - Graigace, by Milan) made it two from two for new connections when running out an impressive winner of Monday’s two and a half mile hurdle at Gowran Park.

Placed in all three of her starts in bumpers for Willie Mullins, the daughter of Westerner ran out an easy winner of a maiden hurdle on her first start for the John Hanlon team last month. Dropping back in trip on her next start, she raced prominently through and was travelling well with two flights left to jump. Pushed clear by Jody McGarvey, she was eased on the run-in to win by eight lengths.

Speaking after the race, the winning trainer said, “I'm a little surprised. I knew she was good but I didn't think she'd do that. Ever since I got her she's been going the right way. It was a very good performance today.”

Owned by the Birdinthehand Syndicate, Skyace was bred by Breandan Long.