Hanalia surged from last to first under Shane Foley to secure victory in the Moyglare "Jewels" Blandford Stakes at Curragh.
Trained by Johnny Murtagh, the three-year-old filly had been tested at higher levels since her maiden win over this course and distance in late May. She claimed a Listed prize at Naas, finished sixth in the Irish Oaks, and took second behind the Aga Khan-owned Tarawa in a Group Three at Curragh a fortnight ago.
In this Group Two race, Foley positioned Hanalia at the rear for much of the contest, with Aidan O’Brien’s Wingspan setting a relentless pace from the start. Despite Wingspan’s stubborn resistance and the challenge from 2-1 favourite Purple Lily, the 12-1 shot Hanalia came charging down the outside to snatch victory by a neck.
Murtagh commented: "I felt she had improved since her last run here a couple of weeks ago. I might have left her one gallop short in preparation for this race. I was confident she could win today, and the rain last night and the extra furlong seemed to have worked in our favour. Shane gave her a fantastic ride. She needs to be settled early because she can get quite keen. I advised him to keep her relaxed to ensure she finished strongly."
Murtagh added: "Her turn of foot when she’s relaxed is impressive, and we’re thrilled to see her win a Group Two on Champions Weekend. It’s important for both me and His Highness the Aga Khan, and we’ll likely aim for a Group One next. The Prix de l’Opera could be our next target."
In the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Bold Lad Sprint Handicap, Ger Lyons and Colin Keane teamed up to win with My Mate Alfie, a 12-1 outsider who triumphed decisively.
Lyons remarked: "He’s a lovely horse, but he’s quite unremarkable at home—so much so that I’ve occasionally forgotten to put blinkers on him. He works well without them, but on the track, he needs them to perform.
"He’s a fantastic horse who can handle seven furlongs. While he holds an entry in the Ayr Gold Cup, which I’d love to win, we’re focusing on his long-term development. He’s showing signs of maturing into a better horse, though a Group One sprinter would be a significant leap from Group Three."