A change of tactics paved the way for Bel Chandon breaking through at Flemington on Saturday.
Bel Chandon
Having her second race start, Bel Chandon was beaten in maiden company at Terang on April 19 when ridden contrary to her pattern.
In the Phar Lap Club Plate, Damien Thornton allowed Bel Chandon ($8) to settle off the pace before scoring a three-quarter length win from Minetti ($4.40) with the favourite Tiz My View ($3.50) 2-1/4 lengths away third.
Co-trainer Mathew Ellerton said Bel Chandon had been settling in her work and finishing off but because of an awkward draw the decision was made to ride her forward on debut.
With the barrier draws not such a factor over the Flemington straight course, Thornton had the filly balanced in the early stages before joining the leaders at the 200m.
“She’s not big but she’s got ability,” Ellerton said.
Ellerton said now that Bel Chandon was now a winner of a Saturday city race he would like to get black type with the filly, but will wait and see how she pulls up before making any firm plans.
