Third-time lucky for Abby Hatcher

Abby Hatcher showed the benefit of two previous runs when winning the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (Fillies) Maiden at Dundalk tonight, beating newcomers into second and third places.

The James Barrett trained daughter of Acclamation fended off the challenge of newcomer Orchid Gardens in the final furlong, with other debutante Line Judge taking third place.

Trainer Barrett later said “she was very unlucky here the last day. I was worried being drawn 15 but Rory was very positive on her and gave her a great ride.”

Jockey Cleary added “hopefully we can get some black type with her and she could come back here for a Listed race.”

“She had a great run the last day and was a bit unlucky in running. I kept it simple and sat second on her and she quickened up well into the straight.

“She was a little bit green when she got to the front but then she went on about her business well. She put her head down and picked up again.”

Quotes from Alan Magee