The Newcastle carnival is underway with the Anthony Cummings-trained debutant Lavender Bay causing an upset in the Prime 7 Has The X-Factor Maiden Plate (900m).
Photo by Racing and Sports
While attentions pre-race were largely focused on heavily supported debutant Arancio, the Anthony Cummings-trained Lavender Bay got the lead at the turn and never relinquished her position in the straight.
"She's exceeded expectations," Cummings told Sky Racing.
"She's very speedy obviously. Peter [Robl] handled her well."
While others in the event had the benefit of race experience, Cummings was confident of the three-year-olds ability.
"She had a couple of barrier trials and has been pretty well educated," Cummings said.
Winning jockey Peter Robl also praised her run saying she had "done everything right."
With blustering winds at Newcastle today, it made it more difficult for Robl in the opening event of the program, particularly upon straightening for home.
"(The Wind) knocked her around a little bit so hopefully it will taper down as the meeting goes on" Robl said.
"She drew the right alley, found the fence and the other horses kept getting to her but to her credit she kept getting her head out and wanted to win."
A $70,000 purchase at the 2012 Gold Coast Magic Millions Yearling Sale, connections have high hopes for the daughter of promising sire Magnus.
“She is a nice talent and a good filly for the future," Cummings said.
It is an ideal start to the Newcastle Carnival for Anthony Cummings who saddles up Wordplay in the Group 3 Spring Stakes (1600m) this afternoon.
