The George Ryder Stakes has been a challenging race for Fangirl, but the talented mare is favored to turn the tables this year as she continues her inspiring comeback from a life-threatening injury.
The mare competed in the corresponding race in 2023, finishing a commendable second behind Anamoe, who was at the peak of his powers at the time.
Twelve months later, Fangirl was expected to go one better, but a stable accident nearly ended her career—and her life.
“She missed the race last year due to injury and was in a bad way, so to have her back racing well and winning… she’s a pretty special horse to us,” trainer Chris Waller said.
“She ran in it two years ago and wasn’t beaten far by Anamoe. Not everything went her way, and now she’s a bigger, stronger version of that horse.
“I think she’s ready to peak.”
Fangirl has not only overcome the serious leg wound she sustained in the stable mishap but has returned to racing in career-best form.
After claiming victory in the 7 Stakes (1600m) during her four-run spring campaign, she resumed with a win in the Apollo Stakes (1400m) in February, relegating Via Sistina to third. She then finished second to her Cox Plate-winning stablemate in the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m).
Waller reports that Fangirl has improved further since her last run and is perfectly primed for this weekend’s assignment.
“The Apollo Stakes was a special win, and she pushed Via Sistina last start. I think both horses needed that run,” Waller said.
With Via Sistina stepping up to 2000 meters in Saturday’s Ranvet Stakes (2000m), Fangirl is the early $3.10 favorite for the George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
The race has drawn a competitive field of 11, including dual Group 1 winner Ceolwulf, All-Star Mile hero Tom Kitten, and first-up Canterbury Stakes winner Royal Patronage.