Kyren Wilson’s two-year-old filly Donegal Rose made a dramatic late surge to claim victory in the delayed second race on Ladies Day at Chester, pocketing £20,000 in the British Stallion Studs EBF Maiden Stakes.

Race Drama and Finish

The 9/4 favorite trailed near the rear early on before powering home in the final strides, as pacesetter Caturra Lights weakened. Jockey Oisin Murphy guided the winner across the line, securing a second one-two finish of the card for trainer Hugo Palmer on Thursday afternoon.

The event faced a one-hour delay after officials deemed the track unsafe, following reports three jockeys of slipping conditions.

Wilson’s Thrilling Celebration

World No. 8 snooker player Kyren Wilson, 34, greeted the filly in the winner’s enclosure. He described the experience as “brilliant,” noting the pre-race tension due to the delay left uncertainty about whether the contest would proceed.

“We were told she would have a really good chance today,” Wilson said. “It looked as if she might have left it a little bit late but what a performance by Oisin. Just come round the outside, really kicked on and just an amazing performance, we’re chuffed.”

Wilson praised the team at Palmer’s Manor House Stables for their efforts. The facility, converted from a cattle barn by football legend Michael Owen in 2007, appears to bring good fortune.

Post-Snooker Success

The triumph followed Wilson’s tense Crucible final win over Jak Jones on Monday night. Asked whether potting a black or watching his horse race induces more nerves, he replied: “Honestly, I think the horse. There’s nothing I can do about it. At least I have got control if the black goes in the pocket.”