Murtagh continues on a roll with Pronouncement

Johnny Murtagh made it 12 winners in as many days when saddling Pronouncement to take the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden at Naas.

The Curragh trainer has been in irresistible form since the resumption of racing this month recording three doubles and Ben Coen has played his part riding a good share of the yard’s winners.

The 6/4 favourite was prominent throughout in this six-furlong event but needed a strong drive from Coen in the closing stages to hold off the challenge of Na Blianta Beo by a neck.

The pair pulled four lengths clear of Gulf Of Aidan in third.

Murtagh said, “I thought when entering her and being rated 96 that it would be a nice opportunity but it was a tough race.

“Ben said she got a bit tired going to the line but she was off since picking up a little injury when she ran so well in a Listed race at Leopardstown (last September).

“Anglesey Lodge and our team have done a good job on her and I’m hopeful there is more to come. Fitness wise she will improve and we think she is a Stakes filly.

“She will probably get another furlong and maybe two.”