Fallen Angel best of the rest at Leopardstown.
Porta Fortuna arguably justifies her status as the filly to beat this season after being supreme in the Coolmore America Justify Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. The crowd was antsy with the thought of a potentially exciting contest, and Porta Fortuna did not disappoint as she drove Tom Marquand out of a spot of trouble before an excellent Fallen Angel. This was a landmark in her excellent career after a splendid run of races that started long back into the season. Just when it was the final run into the home furlongs, the crowd started to raise a cacophony of cheers according to the urgency of anticipation they held for that mighty filly.
Having started her campaign with a creditable runner-up in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket, Porta Fortuna's excitement kicked into top gear at Royal Ascot when she took the Coronation Stakes. With a profile now growing and a band of very devoted followers, this place was now all the more keenly anticipated—and quite rightly so, since she certainly did not let anyone down. When she crossed the finish line, the air was charged with energy, and the feeling of triumph transcended all those who were part of her training process.
Porta Fortuna returns after winning the Matron Stakes @LeopardstownRC pic.twitter.com/N6hTCorDXB
— Irishracing.com Live (@IrishRacing365) September 14, 2024
Spark of Brilliance Under Pressure Through Tactical Spark
In the Matron Stakes, the thrill of the race was well set by Fallen Angel and Soprano, none of whom are averse to running at the front of the field. It was the last turn and tension filled the air. Fallen Angel, with James Doyle on board, eased her horse forward; she wanted yet another victory notch after her win in the Classic in May. The stakes were high and every second counted since the runners were fighting almost every inch of the place in the crowded field.
Tom Marquand, out of the saddle at Falmouth after riding Porta Fortuna home to an excellent place finish, cruised up the outside and shadowed the leader to the line with a technical ride. Once again, the classy self-assurance of a steady amateur rode him back through the field and settled Porta Fortuna precisely as she liked it - in complete control. With the crowd holding its breath, Marquand sent Porta Fortuna in an explosive turn of foot as he rushed his way to a good length over the rivals. This was not only showing off her ability but also Marquand's intelligence as a trainer in such a decisive move.
Celebration and Future Hopes
As soon as Porta Fortuna crossed the first finish line, the crowd of spectators went on a triumphant applause, celebrating their great achievement. The win has made it a perfect hat-trick for the filly, who has now put herself in the picture as a force to be reckoned with in world-class racing. Fallen Angel had mixed emotions, ending up second with Soprano taking third, but jockeys and their connections could hardly hide the camaraderie of congratulating each other after a spirit of competition like no other.
She was backed quickly into even-money favouritism for the Virgin Bet Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket, a testament to the level of expectation that surrounded her next start. Paddy Power and Betfair were swift in moving to reshape the markets, deeming there was far more to be won. Coral had set 4-1 for the expected trip to Del Mar to run in the Breeders' Cup Mile, a preview of something potentially majestic abroad.
A Bright Future for Racing
Porta Fortuna's tremendous performances this season have not only cemented her place in the history of Ireland but more so as a global force. Her trajectory pictures the labour and dedication of her connections, nurturing her talent every step of the way. And with her amazing speed and force, fans and pundits alike ask how far she goes. The thrill about Porta Fortuna only seems to grow with every racing season. She manages to capture the imagination of the viewers with every single race, proving that she's not just any horse but a true champion in the making. This unbelievable filly's going all the way; racing fans around the world anxiously wait to see when she'll be racing again, hoping she's going to inspire and entertain them yet again on the track.
