Henry Dwyer and Mitchell Aitken have combined for a terrific first-up victory, as Asfoora ($2.50) displayed a dominant turn-of-foot in the Group 3 Heath 1100 at Caulfield on Saturday.
It was all too easy as the race unfolded perfectly for the returning daughter of Flying Artie, managing to lob the leader’s back position from barrier three under Aitken.
The team Freedman-trained Midwest ($19) set a moderate tempo throughout the contest, allowing the heavily backed favourite a magnificent run in transit, before peeling off their backs to score a one-length victory.
Ingratiating ($14), Generation ($11) and Magic Time ($4.80) were some of the notable chasers, but it was all for minor money as Asfoora was off and gone with the prize.
It sets up a big preparation for the five-year-old mare, who now looks primed for a tilt at the Group 1 Moir Stakes later this spring.
2023 Group 3 Heath 1100 Stakes Replay – Asfoora
Henry Dwyer spoke to his mare’s class in his post-race assessment, looking forward to tackling more Group 1 races in the future with big improvements to come.
“It was important to come back and win today,” said Dwyer.
“We thought this would be a nice winnable race, back in her sweet spot at Caulfield 1100m.
“I don’t think she was overly impressive today in the sense that she’s run away from them, but that’s when she’s down in the weights in handicaps and going through the grades.
“She needs to step up, and I think she has stepped up a bit this prep, carrying 57kg against some decent sprinters first-up, I think all’s well for what’s ahead.”
When asked if the Group 1 Moir Stakes would be the next logical step for Asfoora, Dwyer responded bullishly.
“That’s the plan.”
Mitchell Aitken executed the perfect ride aboard Asfoora and gave a special thanks to the Dwyer team for the opportunity on this quality mare.
“Henry’s (Dwyer) just a really great mentor and a great mate of mine,” said Aitken.
“It means a lot.
“She’s come back this preparation (Asfoora) and looks amazing.
“She’s the one I want to be on, and she’s just improved with every preparation, and couldn’t be happier with that.”
Asfoora has now firmed into $6 with online bookmakers for the Group 1 Moir Stakes on September 29.
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