New Zealand sprinter Alabama Lass will remain in Australia with connections confirming a tilt at the Group 1 Manikato Stakes.
The four-year-old mare impressed at Moonee Valley last Saturday when finishing runner-up to Baraqiel in the Group 1 Moir Stakes. Co-trainer Ken Kelso was delighted with the performance, noting she over-raced early and struck trouble at the corner but still finished strongly.
“She was quite fresh and over-raced a bit and then got that bump on the corner, which probably cost her a little bit, but it was a fantastic run,” Kelso said. “It proved that she can measure up to Aussie sprinters, they are renowned for them, so to measure up at Group 1 level was a big achievement. And a Group 1 second place is huge for her pedigree. I am very rapt.”
Alabama Lass has won six of her 10 career starts and finished runner-up on four occasions, including second placings in the Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas, Group 1 Railway and Moir Stakes. Her consistency at the top level has boosted both her racing and broodmare value.
“On that run, we have got to stay for the Manikato,” Kelso said. “Craig Williams is booked to ride her again, so all systems are go to head there.”
Punters eager to follow Alabama Lass in the Manikato Stakes and throughout the spring can secure early markets via Australia’s leading betting sites.
