Michael Freedman’s day almost got off to the worst possible start when his two Lonhro Plate runners played up in the barriers, but while one was a late scratching, the other posted a smart debut win.
Mexico was withdrawn after he reared in the gates and when stablemate Madeira Sunrise became fractious shortly after, Freedman feared she was going to follow suit.
However, the filly took her place and despite over-racing, she was able to overpower leader Sicilian to take out the Listed sprint by a half-length.
“I thought, ‘this will be a first, two runners in a six-horse race and both will get scratched’,” Freedman said.
“Both her trials at Warwick Farm were good trials without being asked to do too much.
“She was in a bit of a mood today as well, so I think there is a bit of improvement to come.
“If she comes through today we can look at one of the good fillies’ races coming up, whether it is the Reisling (Stakes) or Sweet Embrace (Stakes).”
James Mcdonald had to earn his keep aboard Madeira Sunrise ($4.40), who was throwing her head around mid-race before knuckling down to her task when she was asked to set out after the leader.
McDonald said she showed grit to get past Sicilian ($2.50 fav), who didn’t lay down.
“She has got plenty of upside,” McDonald said.
“She just wanted to overdo it a fraction when the speed was backing out of the race.
“She was strong. She had to out-tough the Gai (Waterhouse) and Adrian (Bott) horse and did a good job.”
Co-trainer Bott was pleased with the effort by Sicilian and said she would continue through to the better autumn two-year-old races.
“She handled herself really well but just ran into one better on the day,” Bott said.
“I feel she is capable of mixing it in this grade and she will improve off this race.”
Portorosa ($6) also looks to have a bright future once she is stepped up in journey, finishing hard at the end of the 1000m for third after being tardy to jump.