Precise wins Irish 1,000 Guineas, beating expectations

The horse Precise won the Irish 1,000 Guineas on May 24, 2026. This was a surprise win as she was not a top favorite.
By Newsroom | Horse Racing, Ireland |

Curragh, Ireland – The Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas saw a dramatic upset on May 24, 2026, as Precise, a filly previously seen as an outsider, delivered a commanding performance to win the Group 1 race at the Curragh. This victory marks a significant turn of events, especially considering Precise's earlier fifth-place finish in the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas and a less-than-stellar record just a year prior.

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The win by Precise represents a remarkable resurgence, having previously finished fifth in the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas and securing only a maiden win twelve months ago. The filly, now trained by Paddy Twomey, has strung together three consecutive victories, culminating in her decisive win as the 2-1 joint-favourite in this prestigious event.

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A Shifting Jockeys' Landscape

The jockey situation leading up to the race added another layer of intrigue. Ryan Moore, who had ridden Precise to victory previously, opted to partner True Love, another contender in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. This decision saw Wayne Lordan take the reins on Precise, a move that proved pivotal. Lordan's ride has been widely praised for its composure and strategic execution, allowing Precise to unleash a powerful finishing burst.

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"She really stepped forward today and Wayne gave her a beautiful ride." - Aidan O'Brien

A Pattern of Success for O'Brien

Trainer Aidan O'Brien found success in the race for a record-extending 12th time, with Precise leading home a one-two finish, including stablemate True Love finishing second. This accomplishment underscores O'Brien's consistent dominance in this particular classic. O'Brien had previously expressed confidence in Precise's potential, noting her unique qualities and suggesting she might be capable of longer distances, even hinting at a potential run in the Epsom Oaks.

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"Ryan felt today that she was running with a view to going on to the Oaks." - Aidan O'Brien

Broader Racing Context

The event also featured other notable performances. Almaqam secured a top-level success in the Tattersalls Gold Cup for trainer Ed Walker, marking a significant Group One victory for both the horse and jockey Kieran Shoemark. Shoemark's win was particularly noteworthy as it was his first at Group One level since 2024. Meanwhile, Sun Goddess booked a ticket to Royal Ascot with an impressive display in the Revamp Conservation And Restoration Irish EBF Fillies Maiden. Trainer Paddy Twomey, however, ruled out City Of Memphis from a trip to Royal Ascot, indicating future opportunities for the horse to enhance its record.

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Background on Precise's Journey

Precise's ascent to the winner's circle has been a narrative of overcoming doubts. Initially, questions lingered about her ability to handle a mile, a concern that led to her absence from the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas under Moore's guidance. Her subsequent performances, however, have definitively answered those questions. The filly's improvement is a testament to the dedicated work of her connections and highlights the unpredictable nature of horse racing, where form can be overturned and previously underestimated contenders can rise to the occasion. The Irish 1,000 Guineas, a key fixture in the classic season, once again provided a platform for compelling narratives of triumph and strategic maneuvering.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the Irish 1,000 Guineas on May 24, 2026?
The horse Precise won the Irish 1,000 Guineas on May 24, 2026, at the Curragh. This was a surprise win as she was considered an outsider before the race.
Q: Why was Precise's win in the Irish 1,000 Guineas a surprise?
Precise had previously finished fifth in the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas and had a less successful record a year ago. Her win as a joint-favorite at 2-1 shows a big improvement.
Q: Who rode Precise to victory in the Irish 1,000 Guineas?
Wayne Lordan rode Precise to victory in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. Ryan Moore, who had ridden her before, chose to ride another horse named True Love.
Q: What does Aidan O'Brien think about Precise's win?
Trainer Aidan O'Brien, who has won this race 12 times, was happy with Precise's win and her jockey's ride. He believes she could race in longer races like the Epsom Oaks.
Q: What other races happened at the Curragh on May 24, 2026?
On the same day, Almaqam won the Tattersalls Gold Cup, and Sun Goddess won a maiden race, qualifying for Royal Ascot. Trainer Paddy Twomey decided against Royal Ascot for another horse, City Of Memphis.