She only had one trial leading into the $150,000 Max Lees Classic at Newcastle, but the Brad Widdup-prepared Fire Lane ($13) has shown maturity beyond her years to win by a short half head over Godolphin’s Cylinder ($4.60F). Bjorn Baker’s Line Of Law ($6) was a further length and a quarter back in third after leading them up.
The Hellbent filly took full advantage of gate five to slot in one off the fence just behind the leaders and showed an impressive turn of foot upon straightening. She held off a fast-finishing Cylinder who made up a stack of ground late.
Jockey Jay Ford was impressed with how ready-made his two-year-old was given her lack of race experience.
“She’s had one trial, been very well schooled up. But she’s like she’s got an old head on her shoulders,” Ford said.
“She takes it all in her stride, she’s very push button. Has good speed which enables her to put her in a spot.
“I thought the second horse of Godolphin’s was going to monster us late, but she just showed her tenacity. She’s only going to improve and (owners) BK Racing have got a handy one.”
Ford believes there are bigger fish to fry for Fire Lane, and was happy with her fight at the finish.
“Into the straight I though I had to give her a bit of a shove, because she was starting to drop the bridle,” Ford said.
“But once she got into the straight and balanced I gave her a tickle up again, then she started to lengthen for me.
“She’s got a promising future and a good job by all involved.”
Trainer Widdup was equally pleased with his filly’s performance and was hopeful for the future.
“These sort of races, she’s still got to learn a lot and I’m sure she’ll develop a lot more,” Widdup said.
“She’s got a good head on her shoulders and good natural ability.
“(Hellbent) is a terrific young stallion, we were lucky to get a couple at the Magic Millions, she’s the first one I’ve raced.
“I’ve got a nice bunch of two-year-olds this year, she’s put her hand up.”
Racing on a Good 4 surface, Ford was complimentary of the track conditions early in the day.
“Track is beautiful, it’s like carpet. So a good day’s racing ahead,” Ford said.