Saturn Seven and Donagh O Connor win the Woodlands House Hotel Adare Handicap for trainer Ken Condon © Photo Healy Racing
Saturn Seven made a winning start to life in handicap company when holding on well to see off the late challenge of Sir John Monash in the Woodlands House Hotel Adare Handicap at Limerick.
A five-race maiden coming into this contest, the Ken Condon trained filly had the look of a well treated horse, particularly on the form of her first two starts.
Confidently ridden by Donagh O'Connor, the daughter of Sioux Nation broke well but was taken back off a fast early pace, allowing her every chance to find her feet and get into a rhythm.
Travelling nicely turning into the straight, O'Connor came through on the rail before pushing the button and striding clear. Although Sir John Monash and Toughen Up emerged from out of the pace with late challenges, the winner was always doing just enough.
Ken Condon said: "She ran well here first time out and had run well in five maidens but was falling short. She has been rewarded for her consistency though and was due her turn.
"We thought the handicapper had given her a reasonable mark but in their first run in a handicap you are never entirely sure. We'll look for something similar next and maybe a fillies' handicap.
"She is consistent and with those ones, you can make a plan with them - hopefully she'll have a good season."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
