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Heia could be Cheltenham bound after maiden win

Heia and Paul TownendHeia and Paul Townend
© Photo Healy Racing

Heia brought up a treble for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend at Fairyhouse this afternoon when running out a convincing winner of the first division of the mares maiden hurdle on the card.

The 11/10 favourite disputed with Igraine in the two-miler before going on at the second last flight.

Townend kept the Kenny Alexander-owned mare up to her work in the closing stages as she recorded a five-length win over See A Stride

French import Heia had shaped with promise when fourth on her Irish debut at Leopardstown over Christmas behind Howyabud.

Mullins said:- “That was nice coming back in trip. I think her next race will be the Mares’ Novice at Cheltenham.

 

“I’m hoping she’ll improve the whole way through. That’s her trip and I think better ground will suit her as well.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)

About Gary Carson
Gary started out as a trainee/assistant journalist with the Sporting Life newspaper and has worked in the racing industry for over 25 years. He has been with the Press Association since 2013 and won the Irish Field Nap Table in 2016. He enjoys working with horses and trained his own horse, Mamaslittlestar, to win a point-to-point in 2019.