Trainer Robert Smerdon knew Shamal Wind had class and ability before she ran at Flemington on Thursday, but he wasn’t sure how much.
After her win in the Listed Gucci Stakes (1200m) he remains pleasantly uncertain.
Shamal Wind winning the Gucci Icons Of Heritage Stakes at Flemington - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia (Steven Dowden)
“I wasn’t quite sure how good she was,” Smerdon said.
“This was her class test today and you’d have to say she’s passed.
“But now I’m wondering if she’s even better than I hoped.”
Shamal Wind ($12) had created a strong impression at her only previous start, winning a Ballarat maiden by almost five lengths.
She created an even bigger one at Flemington, scoring by two lengths from Brave Soul ($5.50) with Isabella Snowflake ($6) 1-1/2 lengths further away in third place.
Having handled the step up to city class, Shamal Wind will be progressed through the grades with a view to setting her a more serious test in the autumn.
Smerdon bought the filly under what he believes were auspicious circumstances at last year’s Melbourne Premier yearling sale.
“She was lot 555 and I paid $55,000 for her,” he said.
“It seems as though it should have meant something, some sort of omen.
“But I haven’t found out what it is.”
