Somehow is clear in the Curragh© Photo Healy Racing
Somehow was in a different league today to her nine opponents in the Group Three Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes at the Curragh.
Aidan O'Brien 's filly was dropping back in trip for this mile and one contest after a runner-up spot in a Group Three over a mile and a half at Cork. Prior to that she finished fifth in the Irish Oaks.
She raced in fifth for Seamie Heffernan before making eye-catching progress on the outer to get on terms under two furlongs out.
She then breezed into the lead a furlong and a half down and eased clear inside the final furlong. She powered her way to the line as she hacked up by seven lengths.
The winner was a 5/2 chance. Mick Channon's raider Epsom Icon (10/1) won the race for second, half a length ahead of 9/4 favourite Skiffle
Aidan O'Brien said: "She is an improving filly and Fastnet Rock's seem to get better as they get older.
"Seamie said not to be afraid of going back with her for the Matron Stakes. She's getting quicker."
This gave O'Brien a Curragh double as Yucatan took the opening juvenile maiden.
The Stewards enquired into two incidents in the straight involving Epsom Icon (GB), ridden by R.P. Whelan, placed second, Adool ridden by P.J. Smullen, unplaced , Planchart (USA), ridden by D.P. McDonogh, unplaced and Somehow, ridden by J.A. Heffernan, placed first. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that J.A.Heffernan was in breach of Rule 214, in that he rode carelessly and having considered his record, suspended him for one race day.
Paddy Power cut Somehow from 25/1 to 10/1 for the British Champion Fillies & Mares Stakes. Paddy Power and BoyleSports gave her a first show of 10/1 for the Matron Stakes.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
