Bacall Confirms Promise Shown
With her sparkling in her work at home, Bacall was seen as one of the yard’s best two year olds before heading to Thirsk last May. If she was to run well or win then it would be onto Royal Ascot but unfortunately it didn’t all go to plan. Missing the break she then ended up behind the enitire field and ran very immature. Worse was to materialise after the race when she was found to have an injury that would her off the track for the rest of the year. Having come back a bigger and stronger filly, Kevin aimed to win her maiden on the all-weather which she duly did at Southwell in the 6f fillies maiden.
Barry Mchugh took the ride but it wasn’t all plain sailing through the early stages of the race. Bacall again showed inexperience by missing the break slightly and ended up towards the rear of the field. Barry did not panic and after bustling her into a rhythm, he happily tracked through the field giving the filly a chance. The pace was strong and the leaders were taking each other on stride for stride. The fast pace allowed Barry to be patient and Bacall travelled smoothly in behind. The tempo never ceased as for the first half of the race the leaders were fighting for position, increasing the pace all the time. Barry had his mount in a nice position just off the rail and Bacall travelled well, in a good position to strike when the time came. As the field headed into the home bend the pace increased again, with the leaders keen to try and get a couple of lengths on the field. This didn’t happen and Barry nudged Bacall along to stay in contention. As they rounded the bend the runners panned out across the track and Barry was quick to dart up the inside rail, taking the shortest route possible. Bacall soon locked back onto the bridle and travelled easily into contention. With 2f to run there was a couple of chances but it was Bacall who was travelling the best and soon looming up to the leader. Barry began to ask for an effort and the response came as Bacall took the lead and quickly began to assert. Moving into the final furlong she carried a couple of lengths lead and Barry was keeping her up to her work with a hands and heels ride. Towards the line Barry eased the 3 year old down as she won by 1/2 length from the favourite.
It was a commanding and impressive display from Bacall, showing the quality everyone at home knew she had. After such a long time off Bacall will improve for the run and looks to be a filly to keep on your side. Kevin may now wait until the turf season starts before running her again but it is nice to see that she retains all the ability she showed as a juvenile.