An understandably delighted Michael Connell© Photo Healy Racing
On outing number three for Michael Connell (the third yard of her career), Singapore Secret sprung a huge 66/1 surprise under Connor King in the Dundalk Stadium-Light Up Your Night Fillies Maiden.
Rated 48 and having her sixteenth outing, Singapore Secret came through from the rear of mid-division, to go third a furlong out, behind the pace-setting Mystical Past
The victorious daughter of Bushranger picked off that one near the line to score by half a length. Saga Diamond bidding to become the fifth winning market-leader from as many races on the night, was slowly away. James Barrett's runner got there with her chance but eventually had to settle for third, two and a quarter lengths adrift.
"I train in Abbeyleix and I'd never have more than three or four in at a time. We get our few winners anyway," disclosed Connell.
"She's improved a lot. It was just her third run for us. She's a bit head-strong and we dropped her in over a mile.
"We had to find her distance first. It looks like it's a mile now.
"This wasn't a total surprise but I'd have been pleased with a place. A win is definitely a bonus."
The Stewards requested a report from Michael C.Connell, trainer as to the apparent improvement in form of Singapore Secret, placed first, as compared with her recent form.
The trainer reported that his charge disappointed on her last two starts, when running freely. He added that the filly settled better today and clearly benefited from the drop in trip. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.(AM & EM)
