Bay lunges late to land Punchestown opener

New Emerald Bay came with a strong surge inside the final furlong to land the opening Fillies Maiden as Flat racing returned to Punchestown for the first time in almost 18 years. Giuliana and Emphatic Answer dueled it out at the head of affairs for most of the seven-furlong contest but were trumped in the closing stages by Johnny Murtagh's charge.

Giuliana had just got the better of Emphatic Answer inside the final 100 yards only to be claimed by New Emerald Bay close home as Danny Sheehy conjured a late run from his mount.

The 7/2 winner had been third on her debut over six furlongs at Naas a month ago.

Sheehy said afterwards:- “She ran a cracker the first day and hit the line well despite being green. She’s come on a lot at home and improved today.

“She was still a bit green when I asked her and the penny is just starting to drop. She’s a nice filly to look forward to.

“We went a steady enough gallop and I had a lovely position. She travelled well and there is no doubt that she will get further in time. She handled the ground well.

“Last year was a bit of a disaster as I had plenty of trouble with my shoulder but that is sorted now and things are going well this season.

“The stable is flying and there is a great atmosphere around the yard.”

Murtagh moved on to 35 winners for the season, his best year since taking out a training licence.

(Quotes by Alan Magee)