The connections of the filly Pembrey are contemplating a significant decision: pursue a rare clean sweep of the Princess Series or aim for the lucrative The Everest.
This strategic choice comes after Pembrey’s breathtaking display of sustained speed in the Group 2 $300,000 Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) at Royal Randwick on Saturday, where she decisively defeated her rivals.
Pembrey demonstrated superior speed and class, winning by more than two lengths while easing down, still clocking a very fast 1m 08.74s on a soft 5 track.
Trainer Tony Gollan revealed his initial plan was to target the Princess Series, culminating in the Group 1 $750,000 Flight Stakes (1600m) at Royal Randwick on October 3.
However, the filly’s brilliant return has now positioned her as a contender for the Group 1 $20 million The TAB Everest (1200m) at the same track, two weeks after the Flight Stakes.
“I haven’t really thought about The Everest to be honest,” Gollan admitted. “But I would think about anything with her.
“I will let the dust settle on this and my plan has been the Princess Series as I have been keen to get her to 1400m.
“But anything is an option although would I want a three-year-old filly to take on the good horse from Hong Kong (Ka Ying Rising), probably not.
“But the (owners) Kia Ora team will have their opinion and we will look at all the facts and figures. I do know she is very talented.”‘”
Pembrey ($4.40) immediately took the lead and maintained a strong gallop, finishing two-and-a-half lengths clear of the fast-finishing Bangkok Hottie ($6), with Global Goal ($14) a length further back in third. Those following online bookmakers saw Pembrey deliver a dominant performance at a rewarding price.
Jockey James McDonald’s post-race comment, possibly made in jest, also suggested The Everest as a possibility.
“Give her a slot (in The Everest),” McDonald said. “She was exceptional.
“She showed great sustained speed, and to be able to quicken off that, that’s impressive.”‘”
McDonald highlighted Pembrey’s ability to secure the lead without pressure as a key factor in her impressive win and the rapid time recorded.
“This race is always the same,” he noted. “They all get their position, they’re all looking after them for the next one and we always go slower in these sort of lead up type of races.”
“For her to be in a good spot and be able to quicken off it, it’s pretty impressive. Hats off to Tony, it was a good effort.”‘”
If Gollan proceeds with Plan A, the Princess Series encompasses the Silver Shadow Stakes, followed by the Furious Stakes (1200m), Tea Rose Stakes (1400m), and the Flight Stakes (1600m).
Historically, only two fillies have achieved a perfect record in the series: Samantha Miss in 2008 and Angst in 1993.
Pembrey showcased considerable promise last season, including a win in the Group 3 Magic Night Stakes, though she did not perform as well in the Golden Slipper behind Guest House. She now appears poised to reach a new level this season.
“She has given us a really good feel at home but as all of us trainers know when they show that good two-year-old form they come back at three with all these expectations, you want to see them do it on raceday,” Gollan commented.
“It was great to have James (McDonald, jockey) booked on her two or three weeks ago which was a big help to me and she has had a faultless preparation.
“I think when we get her out to 1400m she will be just as effective.
“I want to follow the Princess Series as long as her form holds up and she keeps on improving on what we have seen today.”‘”
While the Princess Series presents a clear objective, the massive prize money of The Everest cannot be ignored. Consider the latest racing odds at sports betting platforms.
