Golden Rose on the cards for Formality
THE Hayes and Dabernig team have their sights set on the Golden Rose after star filly Formality took out the Group 2 Silver Shadow Stakes in gritty fashion.
The classy three-year-old was challenged early in the straight by Alizee, but kicked back strongly to take out the first race on the card at Randwick and return +260 at Crownbet.com.au.
Stable representative Ben Hayes said the team will now focus on the group one race in just over a month’s time.
“The main plan at the moment is the Golden Rose,” Hayes said.
“She will have a run in the 3yo race in two weeks time here then head toward that race.”
Formality is a +3400 outsider at Ladbrokes.com.au to win the Group One Golden Rose on September 23.
Despite not firmly strongly in the market the win showcased the determination required to take out group races.
Hayes said it was a quality hit out for the horse and he was happy that the filly was able to showcase some fighting spirit.
“She was tough down the straight. It was good to see her fight back and get up.”
The win extended Formality’s record to Three wins from five attempts, and winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy said he never doubted Formality despite the Alizee challenging strongly.
“She (runner up Alizee) got on level terms but I always had a little bit of a margin,” McEvoy said. and my filly has performed at a high level as a two-year-old, so it’s good to see them come back winning, and nice to open her account early in the season.”
Defeated jockey Glyn Schofield said the winner was too classy for his elect when it mattered most.
“She raced well, seemed to get her head in front at the right time, but the last 50m the winner just fought back a big stronger than us. Good effort.”
Group 2 Shadow Stakes result (19/08/2017)
1st Formality ($3.60/$1.60)
2nd Alizee ($1.40)
3rd Champagne Cuddles (NTD)
Quinella – $3.40
Trifecta – $11.90
First Four – $27