Peter and Paul Snowden have continued their strong start to the two-year-old season, adding the Max Lees Classic at Newcastle with debutante Tilia Rose.
The homebred filly’s win at Saturday’s stand-alone meeting came seven days after stablemate Dame Giselle claimed the $1 million Golden Gift at Rosehill.
Paul Snowden was pleased to see the filly put it all together on race day after showing ability at home and in her barrier trials.
“It’s good to see her do those little things that we like to see – jump, travel then quicken nicely under pressure,” Snowden said.
“She’s not a 1000-metre whippet, she’s actually got a few gears to go through.
“The attitude is there … it’s good to see in a young horse.
“She is going to learn a lot from today and we’ll go from there.”
Tilia Rose was among the best to jump in the 900-metre scamper but Tommy Berry was happy to let Dominant Lady slide up underneath her and take a trail.
Once balanced in the straight, Tilia Rose ($3.40 fav) asserted her authority to win by a length over Redoute’s Image ($3.50) and Zeftabrook ($5.50), both placegetters trained by Kris Lees who was hoping for a sentimental win in the race named after his late father.
Berry felt Tilia Rose showed the benefit of being given two trials and said she had a bright future.
“The most impressive part was how long we were able to keep on the bridle,” Berry said.
“She had plenty in the tank. She is still a bit green and I look forward to seeing how she progresses.”