A Lilac Rolla (nearest) fends off Kitty Rose© Photo Healy Racing
A Lilac Rolla (4/1), ridden by Billy Lee for Paddy Twomey, won the the Ballylinch Stud 'Priory Belle' Stakes to maintain her unbeaten record.
Successful at Cork and the Curragh (where she beat subsequent Prix Marcel Boussac winner Opera Singer) last summer, the daughter of Harry Angel raced in mid-division and got a nice split early in the straight.
She picked up well to challenge Kitty Rose who had the benefit of the rail and edged into a narrow lead early in the final furlong.
Kitty Rose showed a fine attitude to push the winner every step of the way with a head between them at the post. Buttons made late progress for third place, two and three quarter lengths behind the runner-up.
Twomey, with four winners on the board from eight runners so far this season, said: “I think she’s a good filly and I’d hoped she would do somethinglike that.
“I haven’t run her since she won the second time last year as she just grew and I wanted to give her the time. I’m glad I did and she’s trained well all winter.
“I was looking forward to coming here today although the heavy ground was a concern as her form was on good ground. She’s uncomplicated and she’s tough.
“She had every chance to curl up if she wanted to but she didn’t.
“We’re lucky that we have good horses and good owners. I’m very well supported and appreciative of that.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
