3 minute read

Samaready has leapt into calculations for the spring's big sprints with a terrific first up win in the listed Theshark.com.au Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.

Samaready was stepping out for the first time in a year and just the second time in eighteen months but the Group One winner had class on her side and it showed as she stalked the pace around the turn and gunned down a brave Chiaramonte to win with something in hand.

Anise caught the eye late, getting up for third along the fence, while the well fancied Jolie Bay raced back and wide and was never a factor.

The win is a feather in the cap of connections, headed by trainer Mick Price, who have been rewarded for their patience with the mare.

“The main thing is that she is physically right,” Price said.

“We've only given her gentle trials and been a bit gentle with her.

“I was a bit concerned as last time she had a big tear in her backside so if she had of run well and just run into the money and been beaten today at least I would have known that she was on the right track.

“The race worked out perfect, it was a patient ride by Craig, and onwards and upwards from here and now we know that she can handle race day pressure.

Price indicated that the feature sprints at Moonee Valley, the Group One A.J Moir and Manikato Stakes, were now firmly on the agenda for his star mare.

“I'd like to chase those weight-for-age races at Moonee Valley with her.”