Andy Oliver’s Marble Angel, having previously raced only over shorter distances, thrived in her first attempt at a mile, winning Division I of the Bar One Racing Guaranteed Multiples All Shops Handicap at Dundalk.
Positioned among the leading trio from the start, Marble Angel was guided by Wayne Lordan as Special Angel set the early pace. Lordan moved closer to the front as they entered the straight, and after being pushed to the lead over a furlong from the finish, the 10/1 chance accelerated decisively to win by two-and-a-quarter lengths.
This victory marked a quick double for jockey Wayne Lordan, who had won the previous race on Bernard Shaw for Aidan O'Brien.
Oliver commented, “We initially thought there was potential in her based on her early maiden runs, but we had almost given up hope. We brought her here as a lead horse a couple of weeks ago, and she handled the mile well. That led us to give her another chance. I wouldn’t claim too much brilliance, but that’s how it unfolded. I actually told Wayne that although he was on a high from the last win, his colours might be lowered here. Wayne does well with light weights, and I really rate him. He’s an excellent rider and a genuinely down-to-earth person. For light weights, I always look to him.”