A strong track gallop earlier this week has earned first starter Russian Conquest a shot at the Max Lees Classic at Newcastle.
The filly showed speed to finish fourth to stablemate Ebhaar in a recent barrier trial but it was her work on Tuesday morning that convinced co-trainer Peter Snowden she was ready for the races.
“She worked very good on Tuesday, that’s why I decided to run her because she worked so well,” Snowden said.
“She’s a nice filly. She’s come on nicely and she’ll run well.”
Russian Conquest has drawn barrier seven in the Max Lees Classic (900m), which has attracted a field of nine.
The youngster is by first season sire and former Snowden-trained sprinter Russian Revolution, a son of Snitzel who didn’t make his debut until late in his juvenile season before going on to win the Group 1 Galaxy at three and Group 1 Oakleigh Plate at four.
Snowden has several of the stallion’s progeny and says are they showing good early talent but like their sire, are expected to improve with maturity.
“They get going pretty early. They’re a little bit immature yet, but you can see they’re going to be nice horses as later two-year-olds,” Snowden said.
“I’ve got a couple there and this filly is another one. She’s got good ability, but she’ll definitely be better next time through.”
Seven of the Max Lees Classic runners are making their debuts and the first starters dominate early markets with Tulloch Lodge filly Uncorked a $4 favourite, ahead of the Jason Coyle-trained Vancouver’s Crown at $4.20.
Russian Conquest is on the third line of betting at $4.60.
