Sonaiyla gives Paddy Twomey first Group win with battling effort at the Curragh

The Tipperary-based trainer, who is originally from Cork, was thrilled with the win

Ronan Whelan onboard Sonaiyla comes home to win. Picture: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

Sonaiyla justified 13/8 favouritism and gave her trainer Paddy Twomey a first Group-race success when battling bravely to hold Romantic Proposal by a half-length in the Group 3 Qatar Racing And Equestrian Club Ballyogan Stakes at the Curragh.

Reunited with Ronan Whelan, deputising for the suspended Billy Lee, she repaid a small slice of the 900,000 guineas she cost Moyglare Sud Farm last December and now looks set for a campaign in Group 1 company.