Agartha too strong for Debutante rivals

Agartha proved too hot to handle for her rivals as she posted an impressive front-running performance to claim the Group 2 Debutante Stakes at the Curragh.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained filly had made all to win the Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes in style at Leopardstown last month and it was a similar story this evening.

Declan McDonogh bounced the daughter of Caravaggio out in front in the seven-furlong contest and asked her to stretch passing the two pole.

She had a few lengths to spare on the field passing the furlong marker and kept on strongly in the closing stages to score by two lengths as Sunset Shiraz finished well to claim the runner-up spot.

Assistant Brendan Powell said:- “She's unreal, she's tough and Declan said she seems to go on any ground.

“Last time out he made plenty of use of her and he's done the same today. You could see them trying to come at her one by one.

“Shane (Crosse) was on the other one (fourth-placed Seisai and said they went a proper gallop.

“She seems to stay well, she gallops well and puts her head down. Most of all she's an absolute trier.

“I know most where over shorter trips but it makes you wonder how she didn't win her maiden. You don't mind that with what she's done now.

“It's only onwards and upwards with her. She's tough and hardy.”