Owner Kirsten Rausing enjoyed Limerick success with Fleur De Chine. © Photo Healy Racing
The familiar colours of owner/breeder Kirsten Rausing were back in the winners' enclosure after Fleur De Chine easily won the Ryans Cleaning Fillies Maiden at Limerick.
Sent off a well backed 5/4f, the Jessica Harrington trained filly held a prominent position from the outset, sitting second behind early leader Dreamline Amelia
Shane Foley was content to get a lead for as long as possible but as the leader began to weaken over two furlongs out, he had no option but to take over in front.
Kicking on with well over a furlong to run, Fleur De Chine showed a smart turn of foot to quickly dismiss her rivals. Kailasa who didn't enjoy the clearest of runs, kept on late to take second under Ben Coen.
Assistant Trainer Kate Harrington said: "She was very good and we were a little disappointed after her run in the Curragh but she got a bump a furlong down which knocked her off her stride. She struck into herself and pulled up a bit sore that day.
"Overall we couldn't be happier with her and we'll now see what mark she gets and hopefully she might pick up some black-type before the end of the year.
"Last year's form was rock solid and she should keep on improving."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.
