Horgan excels on Naas maiden winner

Juvenile filly Excelia won on her fourth start today, landing Naas' opening Ground Investigations Irish EBF (Fillies) Maiden for trainer Joseph O'Brien and jockey Hugh Horgan.

Seven pounds claimer Horgan quickly moved the daughter of Exceed And Excel to dispute the lead on the inside rail, despite being drawn 10, and in the final furlong used a hands-and-heels drive to fight off runner-up Arinniti by half a length. Smullen's Pride showing nice ability to finish a staying-on third on debut.

Excelia carried maiden form of '544' into today's race and afterwards trainer O’Brien said “I thought Hugh gave her a great ride. He got to the front and when she got a little unbalanced, he but his stick down and held her together.

“She put her experience to good use.

“She could go to Tipperary for a Listed race next week and we’ll try and get some black type. She’s a quick filly and has done nothing wrong.”

Quotes from Alan Magee