Donal Murphy
O'Sullivan & Martin on the mark with Rachael
Our Rachael comes home in front under Maxine O'Sullivan
© Photo Healy Racing
Our Rachael recorded her first career success, as she took the Tipperary Crystal 'Rose' Ladies Invitational Handicap.
Placed on a couple of occasions last season, the Tony Martin trained five-year-old was sixth of twelve on her last start at Leopardstown.
Having opened at 11/1 on-course, the daughter of Haatef came plenty of market support, going off a 7/1 chance in the colours of owner Donal Houlihan.
Settled in mid-division on the inner by Maxine O'Sullivan, the bay victor was sixth with four furlongs left to race.
She was ridden and took closer order from the two furlong pole, getting to the front inside the final 200 yards before going on to score by a length. Six Silver Lane finished second at 10/1 under Kate Harrington for Johnny Feane, while Emily Square (9/2) was half a length back in third for Tom Mullins and Evanna McCutcheon. Highland Fling was sent off the 13/8 favourite and he finished a disappointing fifth.
"Maxine was absolutely brilliant on her for a 7lb claimer," said Martin.
"The mare has been in good old form and has had plenty of runs. She was showing a bit of sparkle in the last few weeks.
"It's great for the owner Donal, who is a great supporter of mine. Cassells Rock won for him a couple of weeks ago as well so it's great."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson