Races
IRISH 2,000 GUINEAS | Dual-code trainer Jessica Harrington hopes for Classic Glory with Lucky Vega
Irish trainer Jessica Harrington switches her attention to the flat on the weekend at the Curragh
There aren’t many trainers that prepare for a Grand National in April and then look ahead to the Flat Classics in May.
However, Jessica Harrington is one of those few. The Irish trainer saw Jett run a blinder at big odds to finish eighth in this year’s renewal of the Grand National, with 2019 runner-up Magic Of Light taking a tumble in the contest.
The dual-code representative aims to land a second Classic success only six weeks on from the Aintree Festival and could break a record in the process.
No female trainer has ever claimed success in the Irish 2,000 Guineas and Harrington stands a good chance of ending that with Lucky Vega.
The son of Lope De Vega ran a cracker in the British edition of the race, finishing third and half a length behind Poetic Flare.
His trainer, talking to the Racing Post, shared her enthusiasm on his bold effort at Newmarket.
“He ran an absolutely smashing race and what I loved about him was that he was coming back at the front two in the closing stages.
“He seemed to stay the trip, went on the ground and did everything right.”
Lucky Vega will have to face Jim Bolger’s star once again, but he was beaten in the French 2000 Guineas on Sunday, finishing sixth behind St Mark’s Basilica.
Harrington’s colt does have the advantage of Group 1 experience at the Curragh, as he stormed home over six furlongs in the Phoenix Stakes as a two-year-old.
Sitting as the 15/8 favourite for the second Irish classic of the season, it seems there is plenty of support for the colt.
If he can improve further on his Newmarket run, Lucky Vega could well be giving Jessica Harrington a maiden success in the Irish 2,000 Guineas on Saturday.
