No matter the grade, it is always a good feeling to win two races back to back. That’s what Frost Yourself did at Ararat, rising into BM64 grade after her win in February at Bendigo.
The four-year-old mare by Frosted has always been considered a mare with more ability than BM64 grade, so Nigel had a level of optimism about this race. Nigel’s plan was to progress through the grades and collect another win to build her confidence.
However, Ararat can be a tricky track for horses coming ‘off the speed’. So the optimism was cautious. That’s how the race eventuated, with Frost Yourself slow out of the barriers and settling last in the field of nine.
Alana Kelly was riding Frost Yourself for the fourth time at Ararat, in addition to a few jump outs. So her knowledge of this mare allowed her to remain calm and plot her course around the field rounding the home turn. With the short straight at Ararat, she knew you can give the leaders too big a start.
Once Frost Yourself was positioned just a few lengths off the leader upon straightening, she put in a very good performance to win with ease.
It may have been just a BM64, but this race was worth $75,000 ($41,000 to the winner), so it attracted a decent field. The manner in which she won has prompted Nigel to test her in stronger company next start.
The Ladbrokes Country Mile Series Final on All Star Mile Day at Moonee Valley (Say 18 March) is Nigel’s target for her. She will be on the minimum weight, up in distance to 1600m and in form.
Congratulations again to all the connections who are having a terrific run with this lovely grey mare.