Mooresbridge second for Moonlight Magic

Moonlight Magic could not cope with star filly Minding but ran a sound race to finish second on his seasonal return in the G2 Mooresbridge Stakes at Naas, Ireland, on Monday, May 1.

The four-year-old Cape Cross colt, trained by Jim Bolger and ridden by Kevin Manning, led initially in the four-runner race over 10 furlongs on good to firm ground but Minding went to the front after just over a furlong.

Moonlight Magic, having his first start for seven months, tried to challenge in the straight and kept on to be the clear second behind Minding who won by three and a half lengths in 2m 12.80s.

The Godolphin contender finished two lengths ahead of the third, Brendan Brackan.

Jimmy Hyland of Godolphin reported: “Moonlight Magic ran a great race to be second to a champion filly.

“It was a very pleasing performance and he will improve for the run. We are expecting more from Moonlight Magic who will be aimed at the G1 Tattersalls Gold Cup (1m 2f 110y, the Curragh, May 28).”