Hayasugi claims victory in Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude
Hayasugi is set to embark on a rare and impressive journey as she aims for victory in Melbourne’s premier juvenile race at Caulfield, the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) on February 24.
Trained by Clinton McDonald, the two-year-old has already secured victories in the Blue Diamond Preview and the Blue Diamond Prelude.
Attempting to achieve a feat not accomplished by a filly since Midnight Fever in 1987, Hayasugi faces a significant challenge.
The last colt to win the treble was Sepoy in 2011, following in the footsteps of Bel Esprit in 2002 and Rancher 20 years prior.
With jockey Jamie Kah aboard, Hayasugi (+750) clinched victory by a narrow margin, defeating South Australian contender Kuroyanagi (+450) and Matisse (+1600) in third place.
2024 Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude – Hayasugi
Clinton McDonald expressed confidence in Hayasugi’s toughness.
“She’s one of those fillies that’s just tough,” said McDonald.
“She cops anything you throw at her, and you saw today she had a horse on her inside pushing her off the track, but she was good enough to balance up and find the line.”
McDonald acknowledged there is still room for improvement in Hayasugi’s performance, emphasizing the filly’s ability to handle challenges.
“I thought there was a lot of credit to the win, and I know there’s still improvement to come.”
Reflecting on Hayasugi’s temperament, jockey Jamie Kah commented, “They obviously have to be fast to win good races but she’s just so easy to deal with.”
Kah also discussed potential adjustments, saying, “Today was the first time she’s ever been a bit difficult to ride on the turn.
“She didn’t like that tongue tie, so I’ll speak to Clinton about it.”
Following the victory, Hayasugi is now a +1000 chance for the Blue Diamond Stakes with top horse racing betting sites.