Autumn Angel claims Group 3 Ethereal Stakes
Autumn Angel (+380) has run down Tropical Squall (+100) in the shadows of the post to claim the Group 3 Ethereal Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield.
The Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman-trained filly ran into the minor money in the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley on September 29, and has bounced to an impressive victory thanks to a perfectly timed ride by Billy Egan.
He was able to navigate a path to the lead along the inside running rail, while the daughter of The Autumn Sun produced a stunning turn-of-foot to defeat the Sydney raider.
Basilina (+4000) was strong to the line, filling out the trifecta spot, while the Chris Waller-trained Konasana (+600) was far from disgraced rounding out the top four.
It was all honours the winner though, as Autumn Angel looks to press on to the Group 1 VRC Oaks (2500m) on November 9.
2023 Group 3 Ethereal Stakes Replay – Autumn Angel | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Billy Egan
Co-trainer Katherine Coleman confirmed the three-year-old will head that way, after praising the victory of their filly.
“We came here with a bit of confidence and, I tell you what, watching how the race panned out I thought we were in all sorts of trouble so she has done a fantastic job,” said Coleman.
“She didn’t really get to build into it. she had to sprint and she’s done a fantastic job.
“We’re thrilled with her.
“Hopefully she pulls up well from this and we’re looking at an Oaks.”
Billy Egan produced a brave steer to get clear on the inside, and noted he was in danger of missing out on an opportunity to get out.
“I was thinking about what Moods (Moody) would do to me if I didn’t get through,” joked Egan.
“I was pretty firm on getting through and I was lucky I’ve got a well-educated horse whose got a big heart to get through the gaps.
“You can’t do it without the horse being willing.”
Autumn Angel is now on the third line of betting at +600 with online bookmakers heading to the Group 1 VRC Oaks (2500m) on November 4.