Pepper signs off in style in Ballyogan

Penny Pepper finished off her racing career in perfect style when getting up on the line to grab glory in the TRM Ballyogan Stakes at the Curragh.

Kevin Prendergast 's charge was sent off a 16/1 shot for the Group 3 contest and missed the kick in the six furlong contest.

Chris Hayes conjured a late surge from his mount, however, and she pipped 9/4 favourite Only Mine in the last stride to get her head in front for a head victory. Alphabet who had taken them along in the race, looked to have matters in control a furlong from home only to be grabbed close home and demoted to third.

The winner hadn't made much impression behind Texas Rock in Listed company at Naas last time but had been second behind easy winner Downforce at Cork previously when she had also been a head in front of Only Mine.

“She's in foal and I think that will be the end of the road for her — she won't run anymore,” said Prendergast.

“I'd say that's probably it unless the owner wants to change his mind. She's in foal to Dragon Pulse and he bred him.

“We'll see what happens but she's done her job now as she had placed black-type before.

“I was hoping she'd be placed, and to be honest didn't think she'd win, but Chris Hayes was very sweet on her and she was working very well.

“She loves that ground — what she needs is oars!

“We had the dam Evening Time and she was quite good. She won two Listed races.”