Sanibel strikes for Harrington

Bay Of Sanibel showed a terrific attitude to land the Cuscak Hotel Group Handicap at Navan for Jessica Harrington.

Shane Foley was prominent throughout in the mile-six contest on the Sea The Stars filly and she took a narrow lead two furlongs from home.

She was soon joined by Zoffman and then Minella Mate though and had to dig deep in the closing stages to record a half length win over the latter.

The 2/1 favourite had been second on her return to action here 10 days ago and assistant Kate Harrington said:-

“We're very happy with that. She was a bit unlucky the last time because the horse came quick and late and she didn't quite see it.

“She really ground it out there and I think the cheekpieces helped her, not because she's not trying but it just makes her concentrate a little bit more.

“It would lovely if she would just keeping stepping forward and we might try and find another handicap before we go into Listed or Group company, I do think she will end up that in the autumn time.

“She's a very big filly. She was in the mares sale in Deauville and Cathy (Grassick) spotted her, she did a great job.

“We didn't get her until the middle of last year, she's a gorgeous filly.

“A real fast run mile-six or two miles will really suit her, she'd have something to aim at. When she has to go and make it a test of stamina Shane has to do a lot of hard work.”