Better ground brings out best in Our Katie

Our Katie, trained by Garry Ahern, followed-up a recent course success when justifying 11/10 favourite in the opening Irish Stallion Farms Mares Novice Chase in Thurles yesterday, sparking a double for jockey Brian Hayes.

Appreciating the step-up to three miles, the grey mare travelled well throughout and, having shadowed market rival, Down Ace, asserted between the last two fences for an emphatic four and a half lengths win.

“The ground makes a big difference to her,” stated Ahern. “Unlike the last day, Brian said he never had to get after her today. She’s so much better on better ground.”