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| Staff Writer |
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Fallen Angel, the dual Group One-winning filly trained by Karl Burke, has been acquired by Wathnan Racing for an undisclosed sum. The 3YO daughter of Too Darn Hot, who captured both the Moyglare Stud Stakes at two and the Irish 1,000 Guineas this season, is now set to race in the distinctive old gold and peacock blue silks of her new owners.
Bred by Steve Parkin's Branton Court Stud, Fallen Angel first announced herself as a top-tier talent when landing the Gr.1 Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh as a juvenile. She followed up on that promise with a scintillating performance in the Gr.1 Irish 1,000 Guineas at the same venue in May, cementing her status as one of the leading fillies of her generation.
Following her Classic triumph, connections had aimed Fallen Angel at the Coronation Stakes during the Royal Ascot meeting. However, a minor setback forced her withdrawal from the June showpiece, leading to an extended break from the track. Now, with her new ownership in place, the filly is being primed for a return to action in the Gr.1 Matron Stakes at Leopardstown next month.
The Matron Stakes has a rich history of showcasing top-class fillies and mares. Notable recent winners include Homeless Songs (2022), who went on to land the Irish 1,000 Guineas, and Mother Earth (2021), who had previously won the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket. Fallen Angel will be looking to add her name to this illustrious roll of honour.
Richard Brown, racing adviser to Wathnan, expressed his excitement about the new acquisition: "She's a tremendous athlete, already a dual Group One winner, and we're very excited to see what she can do in the months and seasons ahead."
The purchase of Fallen Angel further bolsters Wathnan Racing's impressive stable of talent. The operation has already tasted high-profile success this term, with Leovanni claiming the Gr.2 Queen Mary Stakes and Shareholder taking the Gr.2 Norfolk Stakes, both at Royal Ascot.
Karl Burke, who will continue to train Fallen Angel, has enjoyed a fruitful partnership with Wathnan Racing. The Yorkshire-based handler's expertise, combined with Wathnan's resources, has proven a potent mix in the juvenile ranks this season.
As Fallen Angel prepares for her comeback, anticipation is building to see how she fares against top-class opposition in her new colours. With her Classic-winning form and the backing of her powerful new owners, the filly looks set to remain a major player in the fillies' and mares' division for the remainder of the season and potentially beyond.