Fallen Angel is setting her sights on the Prix de l’Opéra after a strong comeback, finishing second in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown.
Trained by Karl Burke, the filly showed great promise as a juvenile, ending her two-year-old season with a Group One victory in the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh, having also claimed the Sweet Solera.
She was a favourite for the 1,000 Guineas upon her return at three, but had a disappointing run, finishing eighth of 16 as the 100-30 favourite.
Next up was the Irish Guineas, where she bounced back impressively, winning by two and three-quarter lengths under Danny Tudhope at the Curragh.
After a setback that sidelined her for a while, Fallen Angel changed hands, being acquired by Wathnan Racing ahead of her Matron Stakes return earlier this month.
In her first race for her new connections after a 111-daybreak, she proved she still had plenty of talent, finishing just a length behind Donnacha O’Brien’s standout Porta Fortuna under James Doyle.
Connections were thrilled with her performance and are now planning to step her up to 10 furlongs for the Prix de l’Opéra at Longchamp in early October.
“We were delighted with her comeback, especially after some time off since the Irish Guineas,” said Richard Brown of Wathnan Racing. “We felt she ran a great race, and Porta Fortuna is one of the best in the distance. James, in his first ride on her, believes moving up in trip will greatly benefit her, so we’re aiming for the Prix de l’Opéra next.”