Twomey records first Group success with Sonaiyla

Paddy Twomey saddled his first Group winner as Sonaiyla landed the Qatar Racing And Equestrian Club Ballyogan Stakes at the Curragh.

The Moyglare Stud-owned filly, placed in the Group 1 Flying Five here last autumn, was recording her fifth career win in this six-furlong Group 3 event.

The daughter of Dark Angel was one of five horses virtually in a line inside the final furlong but the well-backed 13/8 favourite finished strongly under Ronan Whelan to prevail by half a length. Romantic Proposal couldn’t find any extra in second close home, while Teresa Mendoza had to settle for third spot a further length and a half adrift.

Twomey said, “She’s a great filly, she’s tough and she’s hardy. I think she’s in better form than ever this year.

“She missed the break the last day and did great work in the finish from an unpromising position. I’m delighted she came today and showed what she’s been showing us this spring.

“I’ll have to talk to the owners but she has won a Group 3 now so we will step up in grade.

“She’s in the Diamond Jubilee which might not be an outrageous target. She’s Group 1 placed and the Haydock Sprint and the Flying Five are other race to consider. We’ll achieve what we can for the year and I’d say she will be covered next year.

“She’s won on good to firm and she’s won on heavy. I’d say she has great preference for this track and has never been out of the frame here.

“It’s my first Group winner after a lot of places.”