Race Preview: 1.38 Fairyhouse – SBK Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle (Grade 3)

The 1.38 at Fairyhouse brings us the SBK Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle, a Grade 3 contest that promises plenty of excitement. Run over 2 miles and 2 furlongs on soft ground, this race features eight talented mares vying for a prize of £14,628.10. With proven performers and rising stars in the mix, here’s a breakdown of the key contenders.


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Aurora Vega (IRE)

Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Paul Townend
Odds: 11/8

Aurora Vega comes into this race as the clear favourite. Trained by Willie Mullins, she has already proven her class with a strong win at Fairyhouse over 16.5 furlongs on yielding-soft ground. Her career record is exemplary, boasting 5 wins from 8 starts. The step up in trip should suit her, and with Paul Townend in the saddle, she looks poised for another top performance. A proven performer on this type of ground, she is the one to beat.


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Mongibello (GB)

Trainer: S.R.B. Crawford
Jockey: J.J. Slevin
Odds: 5/1

Mongibello is a consistent performer who has shown versatility in her recent runs. She was a close second in her last outing at Fairyhouse over 16.5 furlongs and previously claimed victory over 20.5 furlongs. While her overall win record isn’t as impressive as Aurora Vega’s, her ability to stay competitive in various conditions makes her a live contender for a place.


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Fancy Girl (IRE)

Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Danny Mullins
Odds: 9/2

Another strong runner from the Mullins stable, Fancy Girl has been steadily improving and comes off an impressive win at Cork over 20 furlongs. She has the stamina for this trip and will appreciate the soft ground. While her jockey, Danny Mullins, doesn’t have the same recent success rate as Paul Townend, Fancy Girl’s profile suggests she could put in a bold bid.


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Baby Kate (IRE)

Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Brian Hayes
Odds: 7/2

Baby Kate is a lightly raced mare who caught the eye with a strong win at Naas over 16 furlongs. Although she’s stepping up in trip, her performances so far indicate she has the quality to adapt. With her stable in flying form, she should be considered a strong contender for at least a place.


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Other Runners

Beauforts Storm (IRE) (14/1): A consistent performer at a lower level but may find this company too strong. Place claims at best.

Dream On Baby (IRE) (14/1): Yet to prove herself at this grade, and while she has some potential, she’ll need to improve significantly.

Mystical Goddess (IRE) (14/1): Lacks the form to trouble the main contenders.

Queenie St Clair (IRE) (200/1): Highly unlikely to feature based on past performances.



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Pace and Race Dynamics

Aurora Vega is likely to race prominently or track the pace, ensuring she stays in touch throughout. Baby Kate and Fancy Girl may also sit close to the lead, while Mongibello could be held up for a late challenge. Given the soft ground, staying power will be crucial, and horses with proven form over similar trips should thrive.


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Verdict

1. Winner: Aurora Vega (IRE) – With her class, consistency, and top trainer/jockey combination, she looks hard to oppose.


2. Place Contenders: Mongibello (GB) and Fancy Girl (IRE) – Both bring solid form and profiles that suit the race dynamics.


3. Each-Way Option: Baby Kate (IRE) – Improving and could surprise under the right conditions.



This Grade 3 event is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with Aurora Vega leading the charge. With the ground likely to test stamina, this promises to be a fascinating watch for racing fans.