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John O'Riordan

John O'Riordan

Kayhana continues Weld revival

Sat 11th Jun 2022, 14:15

Kayhana another for Weld and Hayes Kayhana another for Weld and Hayes
© Photo Healy Racing

Dermot Weld got his first two-year-old winner of the season when the Aga Khan owned Kayhana made a winning debut in the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Fillies Maiden at Limerick.

The 1000 Guineas winning trainer has taken time to hit full power this season but there have been signs in recent days that the team are now firing on all cylinders.

Kayhana a daughter of Harzard would have been expected to need time and perhaps, a trip. However, she was always travelling easily under Chris Hayes, with the eye being drawn to her as she cruised into contention.

As soon as Hayes asked for an effort, she quickened up nicely, keeping on well to beat favourite, All Things Nice

Winning rider Chris Hayes said; "we liked her a lot but she hadn't a pile done, just a couple of half-speeds. She'd stick her head above water for you going up the Old Vic and I was quietly confident she'd run a big race.

"She handled conditions well and surprised me how professional she was considering the amount of work she had done. She surprised me how well she quickened and will improve a lot."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes.

1st
7/1
Tote €8.00 €1.70
2nd
1L
85/40Fav
€1.10
3rd
nk
5/1
€2.60
4th
0.5L
12/1
About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.