First-up flyer Faatinah added yet another impressive win to his record by claiming the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
The seven-year-old gelding by Nicconi is now six from eight first-up, largely thanks to a brilliant ride from jockey Jamie Kah.
Opening at $8.50 prior to the jump, Faatinah returned to the races fresh from a two-month campaign in Dubai. The Lindsay Park stable is now eying the Group 1 Moir Stakes in three weeks’ time, but for now, Kah couldn’t be happier with her ride.
“He’s a terrific horse, he’s been working so well and he’s been so fresh. I said the only thing I had to do was stay on him on the way to the gates because he’s been so fresh, but it’s a big effort first-up” Kah said after the race.
There was plenty of genuine speed in the field as race-favourite Eduardo led from the gates. Kah managed to establish middle position down the straight around the bend, as Faatinah’s exciting turn of foot kicked in not long after.
“Once we jumped and there wasn’t much pressure around him he got in his rhythm he always does, he’s always quite strong. He actually relaxed beautifully today and gave a good kick on the turn, I’m just so proud of him, he’s a lovely horse” Kah went on to say.
Bons Away wasn’t disgraced either running home strongly for second. The Ciaron Maher trained six-year-old was second up at The Valley on Saturday after placing behind Assertive Approach on the same track a fortnight ago.
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