Aurora Vega retains unbeaten record in Killarney bumper

The well-bred Aurora Vega kept her unbeaten record intact when easily justifying short odds in the concluding KWD Recycling(Pro/Am) INH Flat Race at Killarney.

A full-sister to Grade 1 winner Facile Vega, the Willie Mullins trained five-year-old made an impressive racecourse debut when winning at Sligo in June. With connections resisting the temptation to run at the Galway festival, the mare was sent off a 1-7f to double up here.

Always prominent under Patrick Mullins, the daughter of champion racemare Quevega stretched clear of her rivals from over two furlongs out, gradually taking each off the bridle before sauntering home for an effortless 10 length win.

Racecourse debutant made a really encouraging introduction in second, travelling well to the furlong pole before having no more to offer.

Patrick Mullins said: "I went around thinking I don't want her to whip around at the starting tape or duck out at a doll or something stupid but it was very straightforward and she did it great. She is improving and we're hoping to get blacktype with her.

"She was sharper today, was more in my hands and I'd have preferred if she relaxed more but I think will continue to improve.

"Willie might want to go jumping now but I'd be hoping she would go for a Listed bumper. I don't think she'll jump fences so may we should stay bumpering this season and go hurdling next season - that's my argument anyway. She's not big but is wide and strong.

"It has been a super summer, riding Annie Power's son, Quevega's son and Agusta Kate's daughter is due out at Ballinrobe on Monday."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.