Expressova maintains O'Brien's great record in Gowran feature

Joseph O’Brien sent out the winner of the featured Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap for the third time in four years as Expressova made a successful start for the Owning yard at Gowran Park.

The Exceed And Excel half-sister to four winners won at Cork last year for Sheila Lavery and was snapped up by current connections for 135,000 guineas in December.

The 7/2 shot was fitted with a hood for this seasonal debut and was still towards the rear early in the straight.

However, she picked up well when asked for her effort by Wayne Hassett and asserted in the final 100 yards to beat Gypsy Woman by three quarters of a length.

Topweight Girl Racer successful last year for William Haggas and having her first start for Johnny Murtagh, was a further two and a quarter lengths back in third.

O’Brien said, “I’m pleasantly surprised. She had been working nicely but she’s a bit keen and not the most straight forward.

“She was carrying a very light weight and Wayne gave her a lovely ride. She settled well for him and quickened up well. I thought she did well to win.

“Hopefully she’s a filly that can progress.”