The Chris Waller stable looks to have unearthed another high-class filly after Espiona blew her rivals away at Flemington to remain unbeaten.
After a debut win at Warwick Farm over 1200m in maiden grade last month, Espiona jumped straight to stakes level to claim the Listed Desirable Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on Thursday.
The depth may not have been in Thursday’s line-up but what was appealing was the brilliant turn of foot the three-year-old daughter of Extreme Choice showed when James Mcdonald pressed the button passing the 400m mark.
Sent out the $1.35 favourite, Espiona raced to a 6-½ length win from Star Of Chaos ($41) with Star Waltz ($31) a further head away in third place.
Besides winning the Melbourne Cup on Verry Elleegant , McDonald also rode another smart filly, Fangirl , to victory on the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington.
McDonald said both Espiona and Fangirl were very good fillies, but added Espiona was very special and does things so easily.
“I feel embarrassed taking my riding fee for that one,” McDonald said.
“She is a very, very smart filly and it will take a crowbar to get me off her.
“Once I got into that right spot, I was very comfortable for three furlongs and her acceleration is something to behold.
“She gives you the feel of a proper horse and it probably looked as good as it felt.
“She’s a lovely filly. She could have easily run as a two-year-old, but they’ve taken their time with her.
“She’s been very push button. She’s been very well educated. The world is going to be her oyster.
“It’ll take something for a horse to beat a performance like that in Cup Week.”
