Coakley gets Lily humming at Navan

Ross Coakley got a great tune out of Big Bad Lily (tongue-strap on for the first time) as the mare scored on outing number two for Ken Condon, in the Trim Apprentice Handicap at Navan.

Last year's winner La Canaada (eventually had to make do with sixth place) showed good speed to take her seventeen rivals along in this sprint whilst Big Bad Lily and Coakley raced towards the back.

However Condon's representative went into overdrive down the outside from over a furlong out and she eventually got up close home to deprive City Of Culture by half a length.

"She didn't really enjoy Dundalk – she found it a bit quick – she appreciated the little ease in the ground today.

"Ross gave her a good ride and she finished out the race well.

"She may turn out again at Cork now in about ten days.

"I think six furlongs suits her better than five now but you really need to stay six to win here," explained Condon in the aftermath. (AM & EM)