Lorna takes inaugural ladies steeplechase
Ireland’s first ever steeplechase restricted to lady riders went the way of 32-year-old Englishwoman Lorna Brooke, who rode 25-1 chance Moonlone Lane at Fairyhouse Racecourse this week.
Katie Walsh loomed up aboard On The Shannon but Brooke’s positive steer on the Paul Stafford-trained horse paid off in the Today FM Ladies Handicap Chase on Wednesday. The pair held on to beat On The Shannon by two and three quarter lengths. This was only the second time that Brooke had ridden in Ireland.
Leading Irish jockeys Nina Carberry and Rachael Blackmore were among the 12 riders who took part in the Today FM Ladies Steeplechase at Fairyhouse, the first all-female chase under rules to be staged in Ireland.
British jockey Lizzie Kelly, who has had 27 wins on the track and 40 point-to-point wins also travelled over to take part in this historic event.
On Wednesday, Lorna Brooke said: “I am in total shock, but delighted to have won. I didn’t know I was riding in the race until yesterday. We had a power cut at home last night so I had no plane tickets arriving at the airport this morning. I arrived at the track two hours before the race and walked the track. Moonlone Lane found his rhythm in the heavy ground and jumped his way to the front. I am thrilled to be a part of this, it’s not often we get the chance to ride against Katie and Nina and to beat them was great; thanks to Fairyhouse for inviting me.”
Linda Keating, Director of Fundraising for the Marie Keating Foundations said: “Fairyhouse approached us with the idea to partner with the first ever steeplechase for lady jockeys and we jumped at the opportunity. We were thrilled with the support and the awareness that it has generated for the work that we do. Huge congratulations to Lorna on winning this historic event that highlights the opportunities for lady jockeys.”
Linda Morrison from Kill, Co Kildare won the Marie Keating Foundation Best Dressed Lady competition, winning an Aideen Bodkin dress from one of her fashion-forward, vintage inspired collections, as well as dinner and an overnight stay for two people in the luxury 5-star Powerscourt Hotel.
All proceeds from the gate went to the Marie Keating Foundation.