Mecca’s Angel, a standout Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes winner in 2015, repeated her victory the following year. Her initial win was a significant breakthrough for trainer Michael Dods and jockey Paul Mulrennan, marking their first Group One success. The wins were especially sweet as they occurred at York, a local track, and during the Ebor meeting, with a rousing reception from fans, including owner David Metcalfe, also from the north.
In both victories, Mecca’s Angel triumphed by two lengths—a remarkable feat in five-furlong sprints known for their closeness. She has since proven herself as a top broodmare, with notable offspring like Content and Bedtime Story, the latter being a potential world-beater by Frankel.
For Mulrennan, the Nunthorpe wins are career highlights. He praised Dods for pulling Mecca’s Angel from the King’s Stand at Royal Ascot due to quick ground, a decision that paid off. Despite a close defeat at Haydock and a win in Ireland the following year, Mecca’s Angel remained a major player, and Mulrennan believes she would have secured a third Nunthorpe win if she hadn't been sold.
Mecca’s Angel’s progeny, especially Bedtime Story, shows strong similarities to her, combining her pace with Frankel's qualities. Her exceptional performances, including significant wins at Southwell and Hamilton, have cemented her status as a truly special horse.