The Ballerina – Grade I [BC]
7 Furlongs Dirt Stake Purse $500.00 Filly & Mare 3 Year Olds And Up.

1st Asclepios Trail, trained by BigKing
Well i said in the preview for this race that i was afraid a three year old would beat Distant Cousin but i didnt know which one. As it turned out it was this one. Starting well she sat just behind the speed and in the end picked them up pretty comfortably to win by three quarters of a length which considering five lengths covered them all was a huge win. After a decent shot at the CCA Oaks she looks pretty versatile and sprinted well today giving the trainer plenty of options going forward.

2nd Distant Cousin, trained by D J C Racing Stables
Probably the best older filly on HRP at the moment even she couldnt overcome the three year old weight allowance although she gave it a big try. She lost nothing in defeat and may find that as BC day gets closer and the weight allowance lessens there may still be a repeat Sprint win for her come the big day.

3rd Live For Today, trained by Mb Stables
Took choice B from the wide gate and dropped back today rattling home late for a super if not surprising third. This was a great run for a four year old and whilst she has shown ability like this before this was a tough field and she did very well to give weight away to the youngsters she beat. She may find a mile more to her liking and i would be watching her closely next time out.

4th Drill, trained by Mb Stables
This was a great effort staying on nicely for the last pay check. Not the fastest worker but used the weight allowance to good effect and will no doubt be winning a decent race before she goes to stud.

SUMMARY
Another race where only a few lengths covered first to last the winner looked very good and is certainly a progressive sort. I am pretty sure Distant Cousin would beat her without having to give weight away but it was an impressive win and she will be tough to beat in the BC Sprint.

Categories: Grade I, STAKES ARTICLES