Sentimental Legend turned the tables on Aberdeen Flyer with a polished victory in the Melvista Stakes (2200m) at Ascot, reversing their previous result from the J C Roberts Stakes in impressive fashion.
The Grant and Alana Williams-trained gelding, sent out a well-supported $1.80 favourite (in from $2.15), was given a perfect ride by Lucy Fiore, who would later complete a feature double on the card.
Fiore positioned Sentimental Legend beautifully in third early, while Aberdeen Flyer ($2.60) settled at the tail of the field, conceding nearly six lengths – a margin that proved decisive.
As the field approached the home turn, Fiore eased Sentimental Legend into the race alongside stablemate Wynn Las Vegas, who had attempted to lead throughout, and the response was immediate.
Travelling strongly, the son of Brutal looked to have the race under control before straightening.
Aberdeen Flyer made a sweeping run around the field and closed to within striking distance, straightening just two-and-a-half lengths behind the leader, briefly threatening to challenge the favourite.
However, Sentimental Legend had enjoyed the softer run throughout, and with Fiore still holding something in reserve, he was able to respond when asked, pulling clear late to score by a comfortable 1.26-length margin.
As a lead-up to the WATC Derby (2400m) on April 11, the performance was exactly what connections would have hoped for.
Punters can follow the form through to the WATC Derby and compare markets via leading Australian betting sites.
