After the thrill of Champion Stakes Day at Leopardstown yesterday, racing at Dundalk today can be considered no more than an industry day, with the opening contest, the www.dundalkstadium.com Handicap over five furlongs going to the Austin Leahy trained Big Bad Lily
Having scored when favourite last time out at Cork the daughter of Big Bad Bob repeated the dose today producing her challenge a furlong from home before getting on top close to the line.
Ridden by Ben Curtis the winner won by a comfortable length and a quarter at the odds of 11/2 second favourite from Liberty Island at 14/1 back in second. Calm Bay at 16/1 completed the placings a further head back in third under Kevin Manning while the well backed 9/2 favourite (was 8/1 this morning) Tornadodancer for Tom McCourt and Fran Berry could only manage fifth.
Winning rider Ben Curtis said afterwards: "She has had stall problems throughout the year, but settled really well today and did it well.
"She had a break after winning at Cork so I would said she will run again soon, maybe at the Curragh next weekend."
Winning owner Dermot McDonnell from Navan added: "She is in great form and we are very lucky to have her as we got her for nothing.
"She was owned by Mrs Patino (Anamoine Ltd) and was surplus to requirements.
"She was on her way to the sales as a yearling and bit her tongue off in transit. One of my friends was looking after her and I got her for free.
"She had run here three times before so we were just hopeful of a good run today, she will probably go to the Curragh next."
Donal Murphy
