(From left to right) Bellezza and Chris Hayes beat Madam Celeste, Platoon and Ameerat Jumaira © Photo Healy Racing
Bellezza bounced back to form to gain a deserved black-type success in the featured Diamond Stakes at Dundalk this evening.
The Ger Lyons-trained filly had finished last of nine in Group 2 company at the Curragh last time having been placed in three Listed races previously.
She was produced with a well-timed run by Chris Hayes tonight to grab a narrow lead inside the final furlong.
Stablemate Madam Celeste pressed hard in the closing stages but it was the Moyglare-owned filly who prevailed to record a neck victory at odds of 9/1.
Assistant Shane Lyons said afterwards:- “We're delighted, she's a filly that we've always thought a lot of.
“She's had a few hard luck stories in races but she's just put it together there and showed what we thought we had.
“She's a fine big filly that will only thrive with another year under her belt as well.
“We just said to Chris today to throw the reins at her and ride her as you find her. To go out there and enjoy yourself, so to speak.
“He was able to switch her off, he thought they weren't going a gallop and he kicked on up the straight. She kind of pricked her ears a little bit so there is plenty left there.
“It's disappointing that Maurice (Regan) had to finish second but she's ran an absolute blinder as well and they are two fillies that we're very much looking forward to next year over that trip and further.”
