STAT'S HOW IT'S DONE

Oisin returns from South Africa in fine form

- NICK ROBSON

OUT OF THIS WORLD Morgan Treacy's "Equine Reflection", capturing the runners and riders working their way to the Curragh Racecourse Hard Rail during the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby on September 4, 2021. The picture was announced the winner in the equestrian category of the 2026 World Sports Photography Awards yesterday.

(INPHO/Morgan Treacy)

ANDREW Balding's Stateira looks an improved performer based on her all-the-way success in the BetMGM AWC Fillies & Mares Trial Fillies' Handicap at Newcastle.

A filly with plenty of size about her, she ended last season in good form but looked in a different league to her rivals off a mark of 86.

She was partnered by champion jockey Oisin Murphy, back in action in the UK following a recent working holiday to South Africa.

Murphy said: "Held (Balding) targeted the race for quite a while.