Hapipi Go Lucky has Sheehy and Murtagh smiling

Johnny Murtagh's Hapipi Go Lucky kept on well to narrowly win the opening six furlong juvenile maiden at Fairyhouse.

Front-running Gallow Hill gave best over a furlong out as Shoebox Ring raced past her. At this stage, Ultramarine and Hapipi Go Lucky were winding up their challenges in third and fourth respectively.

They were both ridden to closer and moved to the head of affairs inside the final furlong. Hapipi Go Lucky got her head just in front in the final 100 yards and she kept it there during a battle with Ultramarine.

The 11/2 chance beat the 13/8 favourite by a short head. Shoebox King (5/2) was two and a quarter lengths back in third.

Jockey Danny Sheehy said: “She had her first run in April and she's been absent since. She's been working really well at home lately and we thought the six (furlongs) around here would suit her well.

“Throughout she was half going through the motions with me but, in fairness, she's a typical Mehmas and showed she was hardy and she really battled for me.

“She's definitely an improving type. All of Johnny's, especially the two-year-old fillies, improve from their first run. Hopefully she can keep on improving.”

Hapipi Go Lucky finished fifth on debut over five furlongs at Tipperary in a race that is working out well.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson