Stamina the forte for Xian Miss Xian ran out a game winner of the three-mile handicap hurdle at Naas this afternoon. The Francis Flood-trained mare raced prominently throughout, under Paul Townend, as she hugged the rail. The 10/1 shot hit the front entering the straight and kept on well when asked for an effort after the second last. She was strongly pressed at the final flight as Sherika and Acapulco tried to throw down challenges but pulled out more on the run-in for a two-and-a-quarter length victory. Acapulco won the argument for the runner-up spot in the closing stages. Miss Xian had been a winner at Fairyhouse on penultimate start but had faded, after making the running over a shorter trip, at the same course last time. “They didn't go a mad pace and she was able to keep her place,” said Fran Flood junior afterwards. “She may lack a gear but he didn't have to rush her and she kept on really well. The three miles was certainly a help compared to the two-and-a-half last time.” (Additional reporting by Alan Magee)
