3 minute read
The James Cummings-trained two-year-old filly returned to racing after a spell impressively
The James Cummings-trained two-year-old filly Larkspur Run (Shamadal) returned to racing after a spell impressively taking out the the Admire Mars At Arrowfield Handicap (1250m) at Canterbury on Wednesday.
The daughter of Sharmadal (Giant’s Causeway) relished the Heavy conditions to run away with an impressive two and three quarter length victory in the first event on the card.
The two-year-old has not finished worse than second in her career and now has two wins in-a-row either side of a spell.
Stable representative Darren Beadman was pleased with the performance, saying there's more in store for the two-year-old.
"I heard that phrase used on Saturday, 'just treat it like a track gallop', and that's what it was," he said.
"She's a true blood home bred, but (she has a) lovely demeanour about her and just gives herself a chance.
"I said to Rachel 'just get the first half of the race right, remember it's 1250m, first-up on a testing track, cuddle cuddle cuddle'.
"When she exposed her, she really hit the line nice so there's a lot of upside in the win.
"There's something probably bigger down the track for her."
Larkspur Run was fast away from barrier three and was able to take up a position behind the leaders in the small field.
She was able to come off the leaders heels as they turned into the straight and she levelled up to the leaders still under a strong hold.
Rachel King pushed the button at the 200m mark, and the filly shot away, taking the lead pulling away to win in fantastic style.
King said the filly was too strong over the final stages.
"It was one of those cases where the ideal ride probably would've been sitting outside the leader," she said.
"But, making sure she did the right thing early, I wanted to get that bit of cover, make sure she relaxed, 1250m first-up on a heavy track.
"It was just important she did the first half right and she was just too good for them late.
"She's just come back a lot bigger and a lot stronger, and a lot more mature.
"She's making it a little bit easier for everyone because she's working with us."
Larkspur Run is the second foal out of Aspen (Exceed And Excel) who is a half-sister to Group Two winner Portillo (Red Ransom). Her first foal, Stormy Mountain (Dark Angel) was a winner in Europe prior to being imported into Australia after being purchased by Blandford Bloodstock / Speriamo Bloodstock for €75,000 at the 2020 Arqana December Sale.