Pixie gets the job done in Sligo opener

Pixie Hollow got off the mark on the second time of asking, as she justified favouritism in the opener at Sligo, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Auction 2yo Maiden.

The Kevin Prendergast trained daughter of Verglas showed up well on her debut at Fairyhouse last month, finishing third to Boom The Groom and Colour Blue.

Sent off the 11/8 favourite (opened 13/8 on-course), the Chris Hayes ridden grey chased the leaders in the early stages, and she was pushed along in second two furlongs out.

She came with her challenge over a furlong from home, hitting the front at the furlong pole before keeping on well from there to score by three lengths.

Hannah’s Magic (25/1) kept on well to take second under Wayne Lordan for Arthur Moore, while the front-running Paddy Mac had to settle for third under Fergal Lynch for David Marnane at 6/1.

Chris Hayes said afterwards: "She is a nice filly and I should have won on her at Fairyhouse but I gave her a very ordinary ride.

"The form of that race has worked out well.

"I’m lucky to be riding for nice people and I’m thankful they left me on her.

"I think she will go for the sales race at the Curragh now (August 24th)"

The winner is owned in partnership by Lisa Kelly (wife of James Kelly, Lady O’Reilly’s racing manager) and Lady O’Reilly.

She cost €19,000 as a yearling and she hold entries in the Group 2 Debutante Stakes (this Sunday at the Curragh) and the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes (September 1st also at the Curragh).

Additional reporting by Alan Magee