Newsletter looks smart in Curragh opener

Newsletter landed a nice touch when pulling away inside the final furlong for an impressive winning debut in the opening juvenile maiden at the Curragh.

The Ken Condon-trained daughter of Sir Percy had traded as big as 10/1 this morning but was well backed before racing and was sent off a 10/3 shot on course.

She tracked the leaders, under Shane Foley, before being asked to quicken up at the furlong pole.

The filly soon hit the front and stretched clear in the closing stages for a cosy two-and-three-quarter length win.

“She's been on the grass just once and has only done five half speeds,” revealed Condon.

“She's been a natural from the start and has a very good attitude. She's smart and hopefully she'll keep progressing.

“Royal Ascot is on the agenda and the plan is to go for the Listed fillies race at Naas before that.” Brightly Shining was sent off the 5/2 favourite for Jim Bolger but after being slow to get into stride he was soon struggling in rear, finishing last.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)