Fangirl (+100) has produced a breathtaking display on Saturday to secure victory in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick.
It was a one-act affair for the returning Chris Waller-trained mare, as the five-year-old torched her rivals in what can only be described as a galloping lesson.
James McDonald allowed her to roll towards the back of the field, only leaving one behind her as Cascadian (+1400) missed the start, sitting on the outside of a drifting stablemate Buckeroo (+1600).
It was the Sara Ryan-trained Attractable (+850) seeking to make-all from the front, scooting to the lead from stall one, while Lindermann (+600) who saw plenty of late support, ensured they ticked over some decent early sectionals.
Think It Over (+600) was able to park just in behind that solid speed, while Militarize (+550) got a lovely mid-field sit with cover throughout the journey to gain the last crack at his older rivals.
It was easy to see how well Fangirl was travelling at the top of the straight, as McDonald moved towards the centre of the course, barely asking for an effort from the daughter of Sebring, who put her rivals to bed within a moment.
Militarize was asked to respond in kind but was no match for the stablemate and would have to settle for the runner-up spot, while Think It Over, Navajo Peak and Buckaroo all played for the minor money.
2024 Group 2 Apollo Stakes Replay – Fangirl
Fangirl was simply sensational, and while keeping his emotions in check, Chris Waller was on course to talk about his mare’s dynamic return and where to next.
“She’s come back very well, we won’t get too far ahead of ourselves” said Waller.
“It’s good to see a few people actually appreciating who she is. That’s a good little feeling when they come back like that and they get appreciated by the crowd.
“The last 12 months she’s come back better. What we saw in the King Charles was pretty special and she’s the real deal and obviously come back very well.
“She’ll go to the Chipping Norton. Probably come back to the George Ryder and then the Queen Elizabeth.
“I’ve just got to go back and see what other horses have done in the past, that’s what I’ve always done throughout my career. Respecting history and those that have done it well before me.”
James McDonald gave an outstanding appraisal of his mount, suggesting Fangirl will take plenty of beating this time in.
“She’s come back in beautiful order and dare I say it, it will take a good one to beat her this prep,” said McDonald.
“It felt like I was on Dundeel in the Derby again. Just sidle up the rise and basically felt like an exhibition gallop really for her. She’s come back in great order, it was just a matter of getting her into her rhythm and she does the rest.
“She’s just a beautiful mare and well-named, beautiful colours on her.”
Fangirl has been smashed in the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) market and is currently a $1.50 favourite with top online bookmakers.
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