Brave Shillelagh Group 3 Runner Up

The Informant reports:

Kiwi mare Shillelagh did her connections proud on Melbourne Cup day at Flemington yesterday, finishing a close and commendable second in the Gr. 3 Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes.

Ridden by international superstar jockey Joao Moreira, the Savabeel mare was slowly away in the 1400-metre feature but recovered and surged to the front in the home straight. She was run down in the last few strides by Artistry and was beaten by half a length.

“It was a terrific run and it was great to see her pick up some black type,” co-trainer Jamie Richards said. “It was just unfortunate that she missed the kick - we haven't had any luck with her in this Melbourne campaign.  But Moreira gave her a peach of a ride, saving ground and pinching runs to get her into contention. She just got bombed on the line, we were proud of her effort.

“We don't have any other plans locked in at this stage. We'll keep our options open, and we'll sit down today with her owners Christopher and Susanna Grace to work out where we go from here.”

Shillelagh has now had 10 starts for five wins, two placings and more than $110,000 in prize-money.