Kris Lees will look to take Karavali to Flemington for the Matriarch Stakes after her impressive 2000m-win at Randwick at her first try at the distance.
The Group Two Matriarch at Flemington on November 11 is also over 2000m and the manner of her win has Lees convinced she can step up in class.
Karavali pulled clear at the 100m to claim Saturday’s Chambers Russell Lawyers Handicap by 1-3/4 lengths from Lead Choreographer.
The mare began her career in New Zealand and was transferred to Lees’ Newcastle stable after running fourth behind Bonneval at Hastings in April last year.
New Zealand bloodstock agent Bruce Perry organised the move.
“He found her for us. I think she’s a nice pick-up,” :Lees said.
Karavali has had eight starts for Lees, winning twice and being placed on five occasions as he works her through her grades.
“She had Bonneval form before Bonneval is what she is now. She might be a nice enough stayer in the making in time,” he said.
Lees might get a clearer idea of Karavali’s future in a fortnight.
“We’ll consider the Matriarch,” he said. “It’s probably jumping a bit but a trip away, a 2000 metre mares’ race at Flemington is an option.”
The prospect of a soft track would helpd sway the trainer to take Karavali to Melbourne.
“She’s highly strung and needs a barrier blanket but she’ll stick and when we had a bit of give in the track I really thought she had a great chance,” Lees said.
