A homebred for Shadwell, foaled and raised at Yarraman Park, three year-old Lonhro filly Wawail resumed from a summer let up to keep her winning record intact with another victory at Flemington.
Prepared by David Hayes and Tom Dabernig and ridden by Michael Walker, Wawail forged clear to win the 1100 metre dash by a length.
It was interesting to note the comments of co-trainer David Hayes after the race in light of his previous remarks made when she won a Listed race at Sandown back in November.
“I would have loved to have not paraded her before the race because I was embarrassed by how bad she looks but I think next preparation she’ll strengthen that little bit and get a coat and might be a very good little filly,” Hayes said in November.
Contrast that to what he said of Wawail on Saturday.
“She’s gone from being the ugliest in the mounting yard to the best looking,” said Hayes.
“The summer sun on her back has made a big difference and she has thrived since the spring.
“She will go to the (Group III) Vanity (at Flemington on February 21) and then to the (Group II) Kewney (at Flemington on March 14). I think she will be better off over a bit further and she’s bred to be good.”
Wawail has now won four from four earning over $160,000 in prizemoney and is the first living foal of former smart Redoute’s Choice filly El Daana, winner of the Group II VRC Edward Manifold Stakes.
El Daana has a two year-old colt to follow by More Than Ready (USA), a yearling filly by Sepoy and was covered by Lonhro again last year.
