We saw a stunning maiden victory by 3yo filly Mission of Love at Doomben in the SKY RACING QTIS Three-Year-Old Maiden Handicap over 1350 metres from barrier 11!
The daughter of The Mission was $3.20 second favourite behind the well supported gelding Dark Harmony, which had drawn in barrier 3 and expected to have a far easier run.
With Jaden Lloyd aboard for the first time, the chestnut filly eased from the start towards the rear but started to rev up from the 600m. With several lengths to make up in the straight and Dark Harmony striking the lead, the task looked to be difficult but in a couple of strides it was all over as she launched down the middle of track for a dominant win by 1.4 lengths. In fact Jaden took hold of her before the line and she pricked her ears!
This was her first start beyond 1200m, and she relished it and again indicated she will be even better once she gets out to 1600m. We cannot wait!
This race was a QTIS bonus race which is very lucrative to owners, so well done to John and Sheila for the placement. She earned $36,450 for the win, and this included $15,750 of QTIS bonuses, taking her earnings to $48,250 from a win and two thirds from her four starts.
A terrific, patient ride by Jaden who continued his outstanding strike rate with the stable (8 wins and 9 placings from the last 34 rides).
Congratulations to all owners and great work by the Esprit Racing team!