Racing TV published this video item, entitled “Horse wins race after remarkable four-year lay-off! – Racing TV” – below is their description.
What a story.
Braganza had only raced once before, and as a two-year-old for Newmarket trainer Ed Dunlop – finishing last of five in a race at Chelmsford on 17 December 2017.
Having switched yards to Emmet Mullins and then again to multiple Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins – and becoming a mother after having a foal by Champs Elysees in the interim – Braganza lined up as a relatively unconsidered 10/1 chance on her very belated second start and jumps debut at Thurles on 25 November 2021.
Despite jumping big and awkwardly at her hurdles, that was to ultimately prove no obstacle as the Nathaniel mare raced clear in the closing stages and marked herself out as a smart prospect for the top trainer under jockey Sean O’Keeffe.
This was a very sweet moment too for Braganza’s extremely patient owner, Sharon Noonan, who does not hail from an established horse racing background and this represents one of her first ventures into racehorse ownership. This victory came three years after buying Braganza at the Goffs sales.
“It’s been a long story,” says Noonan.
“I have to say I was very nervous because she actually means a lot to us. We’ve had her for three years, she’s had the foal – she’s not your avergage horse you buy and put in training. We have an affiliation with her, she’s in our heart and we want her to do well. So today was really, really big!”
According to Noonan, even Willie Mullins will be surprised after this!
Best wishes and best of luck to Sharon and Braganza in the coming months and years ahead.
Racing TV YouTube Channel
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