The Annabel Neasham-trained Hell Hath No Fury (+900) has lunged late to secure victory in the Group 2 Guy Walter Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon.
The daughter of Hellbent had been putting together a strong resume this campaign, scoring back-to-back wins in BM72 company, giving the stable license to throw her in the deep end to tackle her first stakes contest at start 16.
She adapted to the occasion beautifully, courtesy of an outstanding steer by leading hoop Jason Collett finding the perfect stalking position throughout the 1400m.
It was Miss Couver (+2500) initially looking to make-all under Chad Schofield, ticking along at a solid tempo, with James McDonald moving alongside to sit outside the leader aboard race favourite Hinged (+180).
The Chris Waller-trained mare was able to dispatch her leading rival when asked for the ultimate effort, and appeared to be travelling best when the wire was approaching, however, it was Hell Hath No Fury getting the last crack, getting the nose down on the wire.
More Secrets (+600) produced a promising return and didn’t have much luck when attempting to get clear running under Zac Lloyd, while big market firmer Ausbred Flirt (+230) was a non-factor after bombing the start significantly.
2024 Group 2 Guy Walter Stakes Replay – Hell Hath No Fury
Aaron Chau was on course to dissect the win on behalf of the Annabel Neasham team and was delighted by the performance of the in-form mare.
“She’s a mare in form and she was doing a good job all preparation,” said Chau.
“We came here more hopefully she’d run a nice race but it is brilliant to get the job done.
“She’s continued to improve. We were finding a bit about her after coming from Melbourne.”
Jason Collett was jovial about the performance as well, and although maybe unexpected, was happy to have his mount secure the photo finish.
“I actually said to James (McDonald), ‘thanks’,” joked Collett.
“I was assuming that I won it but for a moment I thought I might have gone too early.
“A bit of black type for this mare, but probably not the results the owners were expecting.
“Days like these are special.
“I was hoping to run a place, to be honest but when she loomed up outside Hinged, I was up for the fight.”
The next logical target would be the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) on March 16 where online bookmakers have installed her as a +2500 chance.
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