Paris Lily caught close home in G2 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes

Paris Lily ran an admirable race on her Graded Stakes debut as she was collared in the closing strides of the G2 George E Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes at Pimlico, USA, on Friday, 16 May.

The Brendan Walsh-trained three-year-old was bidding to follow up an allowance optional claimer success on a sloppy track at Keeneland’s Spring Meet, and a heavy storm before the race ensured she encountered similar conditions at the Baltimore track.

Sent on by Joel Rosario leaving the stalls, Paris Lily soon established a length lead over Liam In The Dust. The City Of Light homebred travelled kindly in front throughout and doubled her advantage two and a half furlongs from home.

Margie's Intention emerged from the chasing pack entering the straight and closed strongly on the outside of a rallying Paris Lily, overhauling the Godolphin filly well inside the final half-furlong for a three-quarter length verdict.

Brendan Walsh said: “It's a little unfortunate Paris Lily got collared, but she ran great and we have no complaints. Joel Rosario did what he had to do and said she ran great. She just got a little leg-weary in the last 50 yards."