A controlled and dominant front running display by Dovetail Diva saw her win her first Saturday race in the ROKU GIN Fillies & Mares No Metro Wins Handicap over 1200m at Eagle Farm last Saturday.
After two lead up runs at 1000-1050m since a significant re-education process was undertaken by the Esprit team to improve her raceday behaviour, better harnessing her energy, the 3yo filly found herself in a race devoid of natural speed over the extra distance, and from a (finally) kind barrier was able to dictate the race.
Jockey Samantha Collett, looking for her first Saturday win since crossing the Tasman, was happy to pounce straight to the lead. From there the filly was allowed to stride at a solid pace, but one that seemed to very comfortable for her to travel at. Half way down the long Eagle Farm straight and Sam pushed the button and Dovetail immediately strode away, and continued to be strong to the line holding off a fast finishing Zoukina.
Whilst commentators suggested the speed map was favourable, this was no sit and sprint. The time of 1.10.55s (last 600 34.27s), was much quicker than the boys’ equivalent race (1.11.56s and 34.55s), and the 3yo feature Gold Edition Plate (1.10.64s and 34.37s), indicating that the best horse won the race.
For Sam, this was the start of a good day; she quickly followed up her win with another, 2 races later aboard Tears of Love.
A very satisfying victory for the Esprit Racing team, notably Assistant Trainer Ned Coldbeck who spent a great deal of time with Dovetail for several months prior to her return run. The results are that she is now as quiet as a mouse on track waiting to get ready to race, and we have a very controlled, free flowing athlete that is following the demands of her rider.
Congratulations to all connections who remained very patient, and it will hopefully pay dividends going forward, potentially as early as in 3-4 weeks in one of the options for a good Magic Millions filly in January on the Gold Coast.