FAMILIAR NAMES TO FORE IN MULLINGAR’S FAIR WARRIOR

Ian Fortune

Gem Friendly and Stefans Galaxy continued their impressive march through the Pat Doran memorial Fair Warrior at Mullingar on Saturday night.

Both impressed in their respective heats setting up a mouthwatering clash in next weekend’s decider.

GEN SHINES IN SECOND HEAT

Conor McGrath’s Gem Friendly quickly took charge in the second semi-final.

After setting a strong standard in the quarter finals, the Vincent McKenna trained daughter of Droopys Sydney and Derby winner Susie Sapphire was expected to take some stopping and this was to prove the case.

Showing fine early dash, she was in control by the turn. Valderrama was second to the corner but checked wide, allowing Bogger Bale to force his way into second. Gem Friendly was clear, however, and she ran right to the line to eventually score by four lengths in 21.29. Bogger Bale was second with Valderrama third, some two lengths further adrift.  

ALL VERY STRAIGHTFORWARD FOR GALAXY

Stefans Galaxy was every but as comfortable in the opening heat, again showing fine early speed to dominate from the opening exchanges.

Shea Campbell’s son of Good Cody and Deelish Oreo maintained a strong gallop to the line to contain the strong finish of Defender by two lengths in 21.34.