In a dramatic victory at the Group Three Killavullan Stakes held in Leopardstown, Exactly demonstrated remarkable dominance this Saturday. The filly, previously a victor at the same course and distance, had finished third in her last two starts at the Moyglare Stud Stakes and Prix Marcel Boussac. Exactly’s effortless triumph, masterfully guided by jockey Wayne Lordan, saw her eclipse her four competitors by a margin of six and a half lengths.
Chris Armstrong, an associate of acclaimed trainer Aidan O’Brien, heralded her as a ‘queen of a filly’ who has consistently delivered standout performances through the year. Armstrong also hinted at a potential place in the mile race in France the following weekend, providing she recovers well.
Notably, this triumph reinforces O’Brien’s successful streak following the wins of Minnie Tauk in the day’s first fillies’ race and Serious Contender in the mile maiden for colts and geldings. Despite the high expectations on full-sibling to City Of Troy, Takemetothemoon failed to secure victory, finishing third in the seven-furlong fillies’ maiden to Just Before.
With a triumphant performance in the seven-furlong maiden, Twain (28-1) ensured a quad win for O’Brien, under the guidance of jockey Mark Crehan. The Mongey Communications Eyrefield Stakes witnessed an unforeseen victory by Sigh No More, carrying 40-1 odds. Under the training of Joseph O’Brien and with Mikey Sheehy in the saddle, Sigh No More was able to rebound from prior disappointing performances when pitted against more seasoned competitors.
This exemplary result in the Group Three race, however, displayed a spirited finish, with a significant challenge from the nearside rail that proved slightly too formidable for opponent Trinity College. Meanwhile, odds-on favourite Thrice was unhorsed from the contest after displaying a meandering run in the straight.
Joseph O’Brien expressed his pleasure at the horse’s performance, praising Sheehy’s excellent riding and the favourable conditions of the race. He spoke highly of her resilience in the field, noting her continuous improvement and consistent performance record. He voiced delight over the victory in the significant purse, and the Group race on behalf of a prominent ownership group, many of whom, he noted, were in attendance.
O’Brien also acknowledged her adaptable performance on improved surfaces, attesting to her knack of handling difficult settings. Describing her as a beacon of steadiness, he expressed his satisfaction over a fantastic racing year complemented by a grand victory.
When quizzed on whether she might feature in the Classic trial in the upcoming year, O’Brien validated such a possibility as plausible, adding that it would depend on her recovery progress after the race.