Qahwa looks smart in Leopardstown opener Al Qahwa ran out an impressive winner of the opening maiden at Leopardstown tonight in the Godolphin colours. The Michael Halford-trained colt showed the benefit of his debut run at Naas when scooting clear in the closing stages for a three-and-three-quarter length success in the six furlong contest. Shane Foley asked the 15/8 favourite to quicken into the lead a furlong-and-a-half from home and he pulled away in style inside the final furlong. The son of Fast Company had been third behind the ill-fated Aca Awesome on his debut last month when a strongly supported favourite. "He came on plenty from Naas and was smart away from his wide draw," said Halford. "He got a nice lead and we were glad there was something to lead him. It all worked out well, he picked up well and was very professional. "We've always liked him and he's typical of one of ours in that he came on from his first run. "We'll see where we go now and see if he progresses. He could be smart. "Shane felt he he hit the line very well and would go seven in time but on first impressions watching it there was nothing going better turning in and he didn't seem to need it (7f). "He's very straight-forward and has a great attitude."
