Heavens Gate triumphed in Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes at Naas

Class shone through as the Aidan O’Brien-trained Heavens Gate triumphed in the prestigious Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes at Naas.

The Churchill filly, who was a runner-up in her debut maiden at Navan, went on to win a six-furlong race at the Curragh in her next outing.

Moving up to the Group level, she finished a commendable third in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot, only a length behind stablemate Fairy Godmother, and then secured another third-place finish in the Group Two Duchess Of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket.

Returning to a significant prize-money event outside of Group company, Heavens Gate, the 4-6 favourite under Ryan Moore, lined up against 19 rivals over six furlongs at the Kildare track.

The result was never in doubt as she extended her lead two furlongs from the finish, ultimately winning comfortably by a length and a quarter and securing the top prize of €148,500.

O’Brien described her as a lovely filly, noting that Ryan has always believed she will excel over seven furlongs, so that will likely be the next target.

He added that she is very straightforward, kind, and relaxed. She can either lead or follow, and handles both soft and fast ground with ease. O’Brien emphasised that she is a powerful and impressive filly, and it is rare to find one as uncomplicated as she is.