Zola Sakura blossoms under Kearney

An open-looking apprentice handicap at Naas was turned into a one-horse race by Zola Sakura who routed her rivals under Jack Kearney.

The Kodiac filly disputed early, led after two furlongs and opened up in the straight to slam 10/3 favourite Derry Lad by eight and a half lengths.

A maiden winner at Gowran last year, Zola Sakura was making her first appearance since finishing fourth at the same venue in June in a handicap that has worked out well.

It was a quick double for trainer Ger Lyons after Yaxeni in the preceding contest.

Assistant trainer Shane Lyons said: “Jack said she got a freebie in front and he kept taking breathers which was very intelligent by him.

“Jack has joined us mid-summer. He’s still at school but is a good kid and loves being around Colin and Gary learning plenty. He comes in with his mouth shut and his eyes open.

“This filly has come back off a break and is a fresh filly who loved that ground. Hopefully there is something for her before the grass is over.”

Quotes from Alan Magee