City Of Lights proved her pedigree wasn’t just for show as she secured a valuable black-type success in the Group 3 Hawkesbury Crown (1300m), bolstering her long-term value as a broodmare.
A half-sister to the legendary Winx and by Japan’s dominant sire Deep Impact, City Of Lights comes from one of the most elite bloodlines in racing. Trainer Joe Pride was elated to have her in his care and delighted to see her class shine through.
“I’ve got to say, I have never had a horse with a pedigree like hers,” Pride said.
“It’s a pedigree made in heaven. A half-sister to Winx by one of the best stallions ever to stand on the planet.
“That doesn’t guarantee they’re going to be good horses but she is a good horse. It is nice to see her coming good as an older mare, which she is probably bred to do, but a massive win to add to her CV today.”
Under Chad Schofield, City Of Lights ($6) tracked the speed before launching late to defeat Tashi ($4.80), with Lady Laguna ($2.80 fav) back in third.
Having resumed with a second placing at Randwick, the five-year-old had the right lead-up, according to Pride.
“I’d said to John, I’d really like to give her a run before we get to Hawkesbury in case we get testing conditions and I think that run held her in really good stead for today,” Pride said.
“A big result. Job is not done yet. I’d love to take her to Queensland.”
Schofield, who has partnered the mare throughout her latest preparation, credited her maturity and natural talent for the win.
“It was a really nice win. She’s a beautiful mare, a stunning horse to ride,” Schofield said.
“I did all the trials this preparation and I’ve won on her in previous preps and she’s just continued to get better.
“Today, with a good draw, we made the most of it and had the run of the race and she was sharp.”
Pride later collected a stakes double when Dragonstone ($8) narrowly defeated In Flight ($6.50) in the Listed Hawkesbury Gold Rush (1100m), giving weight and a determined performance under pressure.
“The stablemate had her chance to get past him seemingly but he wouldn’t lay down and he had to give her six-and-a-half kilos so it was a fair effort,” Pride said.
“But that’s him. He is a courageous, seasoned old horse and they’re the benchmark for these younger horses on the way up to get past.”
