Distress signals were out but Damsel lands the prize

Jack Kennedy's only ride of the day at Killarney, on his return from a short absence following an unseat at Listowel, was 2/5 favourite Speculatrix who had the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle at her mercy when coming down at the final flight.

The market leader had led from an early stage and was coasting along with an advantage of around six lengths when stepping at the last which left Fair Damsel to come home a fortunate winner under Shane O'Callaghan.

The daughter of Dragon Pulse, owned and bred by her trainer Dick Brabazon, had 10 lengths to spare over Between Friends

Brabazon said: "Coming to the last I was delighted as she was going to finish a good second to a nice horse, so I couldn't believe it and I'm delighted. It was bad luck on the one who fell but you have to be there.

"She loves jumping, has got the hang of it now and needs it soft as she isn't the easiest to keep in one piece. My niece Heidi has done wonders in nursing her along and it is more minding her than training her. They are a clean-winded family though so you get away with it.

"Her mother was good and got a Racing Post rating of 95. It is a funny family as it is completely uncommercial but there is speed and stamina in it. It is a winning family but just isn't a fancy commercial one. Her sister is running tomorrow in a mile race, just to confuse you."

Quotes from Tom Weekes