Shahzeena justifies support in Cork opener

Shahzeena justified good support in the opening fillies maiden at Cork when running out a stylish winner under Pat Smullen.

The Dermot Weld trained filly was backed from 6/4 this morning and returned a 4/6 shot on course.

The daughter of Rock Of Gibraltar, in the colours of the Aga Khan, tracked the leaders throughout in the mile contest. Peremptory made a sweeping move round the field to lead at halfway but was collared with over a furlong to run by the hotpot.

She stayed on strongly in the closing stages to post a two-and-three-quarter length verdict as Natural Woman came through for the runner-up spot.

"She's a nice filly and worked very well before coming here and did what I thought she'd do," said Weld.

"I hope she progresses to get black-type and that will be her next plan. She has a Guineas entry but will run in a Classic Trial before then."

"Cork is a lovely track and a great place to bring horses."

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)