Clique shows Weld string in fine form ahead of Derby

After a double at the County Kilkenny venue last evening, Dermot Weld struck with his only runner at Gowran tonight as Clique justified 11/10 favouritism in the concluding fillies maiden.

Ahead of Hazapour's Derby bid at Epsom on Saturday, the Rosewell House maestro is happy with the form of his string and Clique had to be game to fend off Raeseeya by a head.

The successful Bated Breath filly, with Leigh Roche up, was scoring on her second start, after a Leopardstown fifth placing on Champion Stakes Day back in September.

Michael O'Callaghan will have been well pleased with this outcome as he trains promising newcomer Raeseeya, as well as the third home, Quinns Red Rose another first-timer.

"It was a workmanlike performance and hopefully she will progress. She battled well," said Weld.

"We'll look for a Premier Handicap with her next, and I'd say six or seven furlongs is her trip."

Looking to the Derby Weld commented: "Hazapour has an each-way chance but I think it could be a really good renewal of the race. It could be a very exciting Derby. The word is that the favourite (Saxon Warrior) is an outstanding colt, and the horse that won the Dante (Roaring Lion) was very impressive.

"I'm happy with my fella. He's so laid-back and just before I came out he was lying down asleep.

"I was satisfied with his work the other day but Frankie (Dettori) was delighted."

S. Foley, rider of Tough Spirit trained by J.P. Murtagh, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount ran very green, hit a ridge and changed legs close to the line.

L.F. Roche, rider of Clique (GB) trained by D. K. Weld, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount jumped right leaving the stalls.

(AM & EM)