Metkayina Upsets Diva Luna at Lingfield and Eyes Step-Up in Class

Metkayina is poised for a rise in grade after defeating the highly-regarded Diva Luna in the Sky Sports Racing HD Virgin 519 Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at Lingfield on Monday.

Trained by Noel Williams, Metkayina reversed last season’s form, having finished fourth behind Ben Pauling’s Diva Luna in the Grade Two Aintree bumper. Diva Luna, a Listed and Grade Two winner, was the 4-11 favourite on her seasonal reappearance, while Metkayina was a 100-30 shot following a strong runner-up finish at the same track last month.

Despite Diva Luna’s attempt to dominate from the front under Kielan Woods, Gavin Sheehan kept Metkayina close throughout. The Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate-owned mare delivered an impressive jumping display and battled resolutely to secure a one-and-a-quarter-length victory.

Trainer and Syndicate Reaction

Noel Fehily praised Metkayina’s performance:

“I’m delighted with that. Diva Luna is a very good mare, but Metkayina had solid form from her last run behind another Pauling winner here, so we were hopeful. She’s strong at two miles, and I see no reason to step up in the trip yet. A Listed race or something similar is probably next.”

Ben Pauling, reflecting on Diva Luna’s defeat, remained optimistic:

“She jumped beautifully and travelled well but was just vulnerable to a race-fit rival with strong form. This was her first run back, and she took a blow turning in. I think she’ll improve significantly for this outing.”

With Metkayina now targeting Listed companies and Diva Luna expected to sharpen for her next run, both mares remain exciting prospects for the season ahead.