Storm flies home for Weld/Smullen

Dermot Weld got the new turf season off to a winning start as Stormfly struck late in the 203rd Madrid Handicap at the Curragh.

Reigning champion Pat Smullen was seen to good effect as the Dark Angel filly responded to a strong drive getting up in the closing strides.

The field were well bunched a furlong out and, in what proved a real triumph for the handicapper, the 12/1 winner had just a head to spare at the line. Mandamus held every chance in second, while Corbata was just half a length further adrift in third.

Weld said, "She was stakes placed and we'll let her take her chance in the Group 3 1,000 Guineas Trial at Leopardstown. She has everything to gain and nothing to lose.

"She's tough and genuine, and a lovely filly to train. She loves soft ground."

Weld and Smullen went on to complete a double with Ashraf in the concluding mile maiden.