Lazzura’s prize money has now climbed over the $2 million mark following her win in the Golden Pendant. This success has prompted trainer Chris Waller to draw comparisons with the esteemed mares Red Tracer and Catkins.
Despite her Group 1 victory in the Coolmore Classic, the five-year-old mare does not possess the same superstar reputation as stablemates Autumn Glow or Aeliana. Nevertheless, she has been a valuable and consistent performer for the stable, with seven wins from 19 starts.
Catkins won 16 of her 38 races, and Red Tracer had 15 wins from 38. If Lazzura continues to perform at her current success rate, she is on track to retire with a comparable record.
“She’s a darling. She’s one of those Catkins, Red Tracer type horses. She’s finding her mould and getting her confidence,” Waller said.
“Only a small field, but she ended up getting a lovely run. Gangsta Granny was the horse to beat and the horse to follow, so it was good to be able to track that horse.
“The other horse (Verona Rose) came late but she held it off well.”
Lazzura ($1.85 favourite) won by 1-1/4 lengths from Verona Rose ($13). Modella ($6.50) was a further neck away in third, and Gangsta Granny ($6) finished fifth after tiring.
Waller is considering sending the winner directly to The Invitation (1400m) at Randwick on October 24, without another start. A trip to Melbourne is also contemplated, potentially for the C F Orr Stakes (1400m).
Winning jockey James McDonald believes Lazzura has the potential to be a factor in another major race this season and feels she still has upside.
“She has been well placed all her life and is just a good horse,” McDonald explained.
“I think she can improve again, too. She has some tougher tasks ahead, but she deserves to be in those good races.”
The Group 1 C F Orr Stakes (1400m) is scheduled to be held at Sandown on November 14 this year.
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