Hazel sticks head out to open account

Hazel just had her head down at the right time to prevail by the narrowest of margins in a tight finish to the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden at Dundalk.

Donnacha O'Brien 's charge had been runner-up on her first two starts before finishing a commendable sixth in Listed company at Leopardstown when last seen in early August.

Gavin Ryan produced the No Nay Never filly to challenge inside the final furlong tonight and she just edged out regally bred newcomer Joan Of Arc by a nose at the line.

The 9/2 winner is now likely to go on her winter break and O'Brien said:-

“She's very talented and we always thought a lot of her. She just has to get there late and I thought Gavin gave her a peach of a ride.

“She's a very decent filly and we'll try and get some black-type with her next year.

“The seven-furlong Guineas trial at Leopardstown could be a possible starting point.”