Murtagh wins Gowran feature with 'ice queen'

Trainer Johnny Murtagh enjoyed big race success at Gowan today as his Duchess Andorra landed the featured Group 3 D.Cordell Lavarack/Lanwades Stud Stakes, under jockey Colin Keane.

Duchess Andorra was previously best known as ex-trainer Joanna Morgan’s last winner when successful on the ice at St Moritz, but today edged a short head win over Laganore to claim valuable winning Group race success.

Murtagh, himself enjoying his first Group win since May 2014, later said “the aim this year was to get a bit of black-type and I knew when she got the Listed place in Killarney, we were aiming a bit high the last two times.

“I had great belief in her when conditions are like that and I think that's the ideal trip for her. A mile is a bit too short and a mile-and-a-quarter maybe a bit too long so today's trip was ideal, the ground was ideal and I'm just delighted to win.

“It's a long way from St Moritz and I think she'll be a valuable broodmare for Michael (Ryan, owner).”

“I'm not sure (if she'll race again next season) as I haven't spoke to Michael yet but that's job done. Michael junior got married on Friday and I told them 'I'll have a nice wedding present for him on Sunday' - so there you go!”

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson