Al Shaqab Racing’s Katara wins Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton
FOR the silver and maroon silks of Al Shaqab Racing, Katara (FR) (Deep Impact x Asyad) broke her maiden in promising style in the Unibet Extra Place Offers Every Day Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton in Surrey, UK, on Wednesday evening.
Trained by Sir Michael Stoute in Newmarket, the bay filly debuted on 11 October 209 as a 2-year-old when, despite her obvious athleticism, she had a bad stumble leaving the stalls which put her out of contention. She put that all behind her on her seasonal bow this year when she finished second by a short head at Yarmouth three weeks ago. Her imposing win at Kempton confirmed that this progressive filly is one to watch later this season.
She travelled with cover in mid-division before switching to the outside in the final turn by jockey Jim Crowley, who gave her a confident ride throughout.
She came up to pressure the leaders before pulling away impressively to secure a 5-length victory 2200m run for 3-year-olds and older.
Bartisan Racing Ltdowned and Michael Belltrained La Dragontea (GB) (Lope de Vega) was the runner-up with Kieran Shoemark in the saddle.
The Mildmay Racingowned and Andrew Baldingtrained Horn Of Plenty (GB) (Golden Horn) was further 1½-length behind in third under Oisin Murphy.
Katara was bred by Al Shaqab Racing at Haras de Bouquetot, France. She is by the Champion Japanese sire Deep Impact (JPN) and out of New Approach’s (IRE) mare. Asyad (IRE), a three-time winner herself in Al Shaqab Racing colours.