Two-year-old filly Design Artist has landed a betting plunge in her debut win at Sandown.
Phillip Stokes has been surprised at the steps Design Artist has been able to make before a winning debut at Sandown.
A two-year-old daughter of Al Maher, Design Artist displayed a lot of potential in taking out the Ladbrokes Bet Ticker Handicap (1200m) on Sunday.
Stokes said he was surprised to see the filly at the racetrack so early in her career, although that did not stop punters stepping in and backing the filly who rode the speed under Ben Allen before recording a narrow, but decisive victory.
Sent off the $2.60 Ladbrokes favourite, Design Artist held off Cardigan Queen ($3) by a neck with Gracie Turf ($101) a further 2-¾ lengths off third.
“I was surprised that she’s got here this early,” Stokes said.
“She looks like she’s going to make a lovely three-year-old and she’ll take a lot out of this.
“We’ll tip her out now and look forward to the spring.”
Stokes explained Design Artist had been sitting back in her jump-outs and circling her opposition and was “well-rehearsed” for her debut.
“She was left out in front a long way out but toughed it to the line and I’m really happy for the owner in Adelaide,” Stokes said.
“She’s had those 800-metre trials at Pakenham and it is the sign of a good horse that can hang on and do that on debut.
“I’m hoping we can stretch her out over a bit longer next time and I’m looking forward to the next prep.
“I think she’s got a future.”
Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au