Simmonson wins on well-backed Mirdif David Simmonson rode his second winner in Ireland and his fifteenth overall when Mirdif came out on top in the opening Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Leopardstown. Seven pound claimer Simmonson is a native of Kildare town and he partnered winners cross-channel is his time with Mick Easterby and Tony Coyle. Michael O'Callaghan's Mirdif made an encouraging start to his own career at Fairyhouse a fortnight back, and he built on that in this six furlong event to justify his position as the well-backed 3/1 favourite. O'Callaghan's Blue De Vega finished seventh over at Royal Ascot, but stable companion Mirdif made all for a length and three parts win from Istan. (GC & EM)
