Promising Westerner Mare Goes One Better Over Hurdles

Thursday saw Western Zara (5m Westerner - Flemerelle, by Flemensfirth) continue the fine form of the Paul Nolan stable when landing the mares maiden hurdle at Clonmel.

Bought by Gerry Hogan for £85,000 after finishing second on her sole start between the flags, the grey mare filled the same place on her hurdle debut in February. Stepping up to two miles and two furlongs on her latest start, she chased the leader for much of the way and led at the final flight. Pushed out by Richie Deegan, she won by ten lengths.

Speaking after the race, Paul Nolan said, “She would be more at home over a longer trip and maybe easier ground as well. She is a tall, young Westerner mare who would gallop until she'd die. She's a lightly raced filly and we'll see if she runs again this season.”

Owned by Anna Scanlon, Western Zara is the first foal bred by Philip Hore out of Flemerelle (Flemensfirth).