50 for the season for Foley

Jockey’s championship leader Shane Foley rode his 50th winner of the campaign when scoring aboard Fly Girl (11/8 favourite) in the Foran Equine Irish EBF Auction Maiden at Leopardstown.

Fourth on debut at this venue over a mile three weeks back, Fly Girl showed the benefit of having that experience, soon in front and she was still travelling well entering the straight.

A daughter of The Gurkha the victor was pushed along and was two lengths clear a furlong out.

Keeping on well Fly Girl was ridden with a reduced advantage in the closing stages, holding off the promising first-timer, Messidor who was nearest at the finish, by half a length. Quattroelle didn’t get a clear run over a furlong out and she was a neck back in third.

“She had a nice run here the first time but I ran her over a mile and I don't think she really got home,” said winning trainer Jessica Harrington.

“Shane said she was pretty green in front today but she did it well. She had been in front a long time.

“Richard (Barnes, owner) is my next door neighbour and I've had horses for him for a long time.”

S. Foley, rider of Fly Girl trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ducked right after the road crossing.

(GC & EM)