Trainer Chrissy Bambry experienced a whirlwind of emotions within half an hour on Saturday. Her talented three-year-old filly, Chantilly Lace, showcased her mettle by securing consecutive stakes victories in the Listed Wanganui Guineas (1200m).
In an earlier race, Bambry's Flower Of Wanaka, also under her tutelage, had an unfortunate run when held up for a significant portion of the home straight, piloted by apprentice Lily Sutherland. However, Sutherland ensured a different outcome for Chantilly Lace, a daughter of US Navy Flag.
Sutherland positioned Chantilly Lace at the rear of the eight-horse field but launched a decisive move at the 600m mark, challenging the leaders midway down the home straight.
Despite a formidable challenge from Jonathan Riddell aboard the promising maiden Lantern Way, Chantilly Lace displayed unwavering determination, clinching victory by a neck.
This marked her second stakes win at the same venue, following her earlier triumph in the Listed Castletown Stakes (1200m) during her two-year-old campaign.
2023 Listed Wanganui Guineas – Chantilly Lace – J: Lily Sutherland – T: Chrissy Bambry
Chrissy Bambry, who shares ownership of the filly with her parents Tony and Judith, continued a family legacy of success in this race, having previously claimed it with Lord Turbo in 2013 and Alcaldesa in 2015.
Bambry praised Chantilly Lace's resilience, stating, “She was very brave, having to work for it. Lily has confidence in her, and it showed.”
Acknowledging a challenging barrier draw (8 of 8), Bambry added, “She relaxed nicely and displayed great strength during her run. She's a tough competitor and hard to beat when she gets ahead.”
Chantilly Lace's victory sets the stage for her aspirations, with the Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on November 17 firmly in her sights.
“We draw confidence from this win, and her ability on good tracks makes the 1000 Guineas a real possibility,” Bambry affirmed. “We might consider the Gold Trail Stakes (Group 3, 1200m) at Hastings next week, and then plan her path to Riccarton.”
Chantilly Lace was acquired for NZ$66,000 by the Bambry family and bloodstock agent Paul Moroney through the Valachi Downs Dispersal Sale.
With three victories from nine starts, she has not only repaid their faith with over NZ$105,000 in prize money but has also enhanced her potential as a valuable broodmare prospect after her racing career concludes.