Plenty of anticipation hung in the balance as competitors approached the final two hurdles, with multiple contenders still in contention as they approached the penultimate flight in the prestigious Grade Three Irish Stallion Farms EBF Shannon Spray Mares Novice Hurdle. Bioluminescence, the 7/4 second favourite, displayed exceptional hurdling skills and emerged victorious at Limerick.
Under the guidance of jockey Simon Torrens, sporting the J P McManus colours for trainer Gavin Cromwell, the talented daughter of Walk In The Park asserted her dominance in the race, surging ahead from the final hurdle to secure a convincing win over Millstream Lady by three and a quarter lengths.
Celebrating his 73rd birthday, McManus had earlier tasted success with Pure Steel at the Belclare point-to-point event. Torrens, after the race, commented on the performance, stating,
"It was my debut ride on her, and she is an impressive, imposing mare with many admirable qualities."
Torrens further elaborated,
"The ground conditions were challenging, so we maintained a steady pace and only picked up speed towards the top of the hill, with riders keeping a close eye on one another. I was keen to keep her momentum going, ensuring we didn't lose ground, and she delivered solid jumps over the final two hurdles."
Assessing the mare's potential, Torrens added,
"Judging by her physique, she seems well-suited for chasing in the future."
Reflecting on the victory at Naas, Cromwell expressed his admiration for the mare, stating,
"She's a striking, large mare that I have always held in high regard. Although she is six years old, she is only now reaching her peak form, making the recent race an ideal test for her over the distance. As she progresses, she will likely excel over longer trips when she transitions to steeplechasing."
Looking forward, Cromwell revealed,
"She is nominated for the Grade One event at Fairyhouse, and if all goes well, she will compete there in the near future."