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Iridessa bounces back to form to claim second Group 1 in Pretty Polly

Iridessa (red) and Wayne Lordan win the Pretty Polly
Iridessa (red) and Wayne Lordan win the Pretty PollyCredit: Patrick McCann

It was billed as a clash between Investec Oaks runner-up Pink Dogwood and three-time Group 1 winner Wild Illusion but 8-1 shot Iridessa, the outsider of the five runners, upstaged her rivals to land the Group 1 Juddmonte Pretty Polly Stakes on day two of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained filly, who won the Fillies' Mile last year, was bagging her second success at Group 1 level and won decisively by two and a quarter lengths. Magic Wand was second with 11-10 favourite Pink Dogwood a length and a quarter back in third.

O'Brien said: "Iridessa has won very well and Wayne [Lordan] gave her a lovely ride. We thought that stepping up from a mile would suit her and I suppose it would make sense to think about going for the Kerrygold Irish Oaks next month.
Iridessa and Wayne Lordan return after winning the Pretty Polly
Iridessa and Wayne Lordan return after winning the Pretty PollyCredit: Patrick McCann

"But she won like a pacey filly tonight and we'll wait and see how she comes out of the race before making definite plans.

"I'm over the moon. The race set up beautifully for her. She didn't run badly on her three starts this season but we still came home a little bit disappointed. She was crying out to go up in distance and I'm delighted with her."

Paddy Power reacted by making Iridessa 6-1 for the Irish Oaks.

A daughter of 2013 Derby winner Ruler Of The World, Iridessa, who finished fourth in the Irish 1,000 Guineas last month, also holds entries in the Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket and the Qatar Nassau Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained Magic Wand, who travelled well under Donnacha O'Brien, finished runner-up and was tightened somewhat for room when held by the winner inside the final furlong.
Pink Dogwood: a step back up in trip beckons
Pink Dogwood: a step back up in trip beckonsCredit: Patrick McCann

The trainer said: "It looked a good race and Iridessa quickened up too well for our two fillies. I'd imagine Pink Dogwood will go back up in trip and head for the Irish Oaks back here next month."

Wild Illusion, winner of the Nassau Stakes and the Prix de L'Opera last season, was a length and a quarter behind Pink Dogwood in fourth place with Worth Waiting last of the five runners.


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Racing Post Reporter

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