EYE CATCHING WINNER & GROUP ENTRIES

It was a striking debut performance from Atsila, a daughter of Phoenix of Spain, as she powered home to win the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden under a confident ride from Gavin Ryan for trainer Donnacha O’Brien and owner Mrs Barry Fowler at Bellewstown Races.

Congratulations go to all connections, especially breeder Matt Duffy, as this well-related filly stamped herself as one to follow. Atsila is a half-sister to multiple winners including the high-class Layfayette (5.7f–12.5f, including 2yo and Group 2 success; RPR 114), giving her pedigree real depth and versatility.

Foaled, prepped, and consigned by Olive O’Connor, the filly was snapped up by her trainer Donnacha O’Brien at the Goffs Orby Sale, and she is already repaying the investment with a performance full of promise and professionalism.

With runners like Atsila emerging, Phoenix of Spain continues to build an exciting profile at stud. Standing for €10,000, he offers exceptional value for breeders looking to access the potent Lope de Vega–Shamardal sireline.

Looking ahead, the progeny of Phoenix of Spain are beginning to make waves on bigger stages. His daughter Alpheratz (Gr.3p) is set to line up in the Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes (Group 3) over a mile this Saturday at the Curragh for trainer Joseph G Murphy.

Meanwhile, the highly talented Haatem—winner of the Gr.2 Vintage Stakes, Gr.3 Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot, Gr.3 Craven Stakes, runner-up in the Gr.1 Irish 2,000 Guineas, and third in the Gr.1 2,000 Guineas—is on course for his seasonal return in the Gr.2 Sandown Mile in two weeks, with the Gr.1 Lockinge Stakes firmly on his radar, according to trainer Richard Hannon for Wathnan Racing.

Expect more to come from this exciting young sire.

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