Ostraka caused a major upset at Dundalk by winning the William Hill Top Price Guarantee Mercury Stakes at odds of 66/1. This victory gave apprentice jockey James Ryan his first group win. The filly, trained by Danny Murphy and ridden by Anthony Challoner, broke well and led the race over five furlongs. Despite being rated 83, Ostraka showed determination and held off Powerful Nation to win by a head. Electric Storm, trained in Britain, finished third.
Danny Murphy expressed his surprise at the win but also mentioned that he had faith in Ostraka’s abilities. He credited the victory to strategic planning and shared that he had instructed James Ryan to replicate the winning performance of Dun Na Sead from the previous year. Murphy also hinted at Ostraka’s potential for future success, especially on firm ground.
In another race, Eclairage, another horse trained by Siobhan Murphy, claimed victory in the Christmas Party Nights Nursery. The daughter of Kuroshio, ridden by Declan McDonogh, led from the start and held on to win by half a length. Siobhan Murphy praised the jockey’s skill in getting the horse out of the gates quickly.
Trainer Johnny Murtagh enjoyed a successful evening with two wins. Pascalia won the fillies’ claimer, ridden by Ben Coen, and Blanc De Noir triumphed in the William Hill Committed To Top Prices Handicap with Rory Mulligan on board. Despite narrowly missing a treble, Murtagh’s horses put in strong performances throughout the evening.
In the maiden race, Persian Bliss, trained by Adrian Murray and ridden by David Egan, made a winning debut. The colt, a half-brother to a listed winner, showed promise and potential for longer distances in the future. Egan praised the horse’s performance under pressure and highlighted his potential for further development.
Marble Angel, trained by Andy Oliver, continued her successful streak at Dundalk by winning the View Restaurant Dundalk Apprentice Handicap. The mare, ridden by Jack Kearney, displayed a strong finish and secured her third win at the venue. Oliver expressed satisfaction with the horse’s progress and revealed plans to take her to the Newmarket Sales.
Overall, the racing event at Dundalk featured unexpected victories, strong performances, and promising prospects for the future. Trainers, jockeys, and horses showcased their skills and abilities, setting the stage for an exciting racing season ahead.