Despite not being a frequent winner, Bestower demonstrated her class when it counted, securing a significant stakes victory in the Listed The Beauford at her home track in Newcastle.
This triumph marked only her fourth win from 35 starts and her first since a midweek grade victory last December. Trainer Kris Lees attributed the success to jockey Tyler Schiller’s early tactical move.
“He discussed before the race she often hits a flat spot, and he was adamant he wanted to get going before that to help her through it,” Lees explained.
“I started to wonder, I hope he hasn’t gone too early here. But he knew what he was doing.
“She could have went another lap.”
The victory provided the leading local trainer with his inaugural win in this staying feature, a race he almost bypassed with the mare.
Lees disclosed that a benchmark race at Kembla Grange’s Gong meeting next weekend was also considered before they opted to take a chance in the Listed The Beauford.
“To win a stakes race with a mare and a Newcastle bunch of owners, they were rapt when we even decided to go this way,” he commented.
“We considered a benchmark 78 next week at Kembla, which she ran second in last year, but we went with the stakes race and gave her a chance in better company, and it’s come off nicely for her.”
Bestower also facilitated Schiller’s second black-type win of the day, following his earlier success in the Group 3 Spring Stakes (1600m) aboard filly Katoto for Chris Waller.
Although this was Schiller’s first ride on Bestower this preparation, he had partnered her extensively previously. He admitted that he remained uncertain if his strategy of launching a prolonged run would be successful.
“When I peeled out at the 800, I still didn’t think she’d sustain it,” Schiller confessed.
“I knew she’d be strong late, but I thought there’d be something that would outstay us in the class. But with the weight, she’s done a great job.”
Bestower ($7.50) maintained a strong gallop down the middle of the track to win by three lengths. Doctor Askar ($13) finished second, with the front-running Campaldino ($7.50) securing third place another half-length back.
Favourite Savvy Spy ($2.35), seeking its fourth consecutive win, was unable to make an impact from well back in the field, finishing sixth, more than seven lengths adrift of the winner.
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