Magee delighted with 'massive' premier handicap victory

Based in Shercock Co Cavan, Paddy Magee has had his horses in fine form over the last few weeks and Arch Enemy (11/1) provided him with his biggest success as a trainer when landing the Bahrain Turf Club October Handicap.

The grey daughter of Alhebayeb had got her head back in front at Bellewstown earlier in the month but had been unplaced at the Curragh on Thursday and was running from 7lb out of the handicap.

Ground conditions suited though and, having been waited with in mid-division on the inner, she picked up well for young apprentice Julian Pietropaolo when the gaps opened in the straight.

In front under a furlong out, the winner ran on well to beat Scholarship by a length-and-a-quarter. 

Based with Joseph O'Brien, former pony racing rider Pietropaolo has now lost his 10lb claim after three winners and it wasn't the greatest surprise to learn that master agent Kevin O'Ryan will henceforth be booking his rides.

“I'm delighted and a bit in shock to be honest,”said Magee who trains the five-year-old for the Black Steel Square Syndicate.  

“Fergal Harford that's involved with me, and does all the pre-training, has a share in her and he was keen to go for this race so I have to give most of the credit to him. 

“I thought she might be a little bit outclassed but he's been very keen to run her in a good race with a light weight. 

“She loves it here and has been second a couple of times this year. It's all worked out on the day. 

“Julian got some lovely splits and she was brave. Everyone that has rode her has said that she has the heart of a lion, she showed it there today. 

“It's massive for us to win a premier handicap with a small string, it means a lot.”

Quotes from Gary Carson