First Win for Fastnet Blueblood
By champion Australian sire Fastnet Rock from the winner of the 2002 Group I Royal Ascot Coronation Stakes, royally bred Serena’s Pride (3f Fastnet Rock x Sophisticat, by Storm Cat) is certainly a filly with a big pedigree.
Trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, the Hutchins family homebred was resuming from a spell in the 1200 metre maiden and scored a tenacious neck win over the fast finishing Tutu.
Placed at three of her previous four starts, Serena’s Pride has returned a stronger filly this time and more wins are in store.
“She’s a quality filly and beautifully bred, so it was important for her to win today,” said Adrian Bott.
“Her owners have been patient and given her time to mature. We’d love to get some Black Type with her so will look towards the autumn.”
Serena’s Pride is the only living foal born in Australia for Sophisticat, who was imported here in 2011 and died in 2015.
Serena’s Pride is a half-sister to French stakes-winner Sefroua and Group I placed Pursuit of Glory and is the fourth winner from Sophisticat, who was at stud in the Northern Hemisphere prior to her arrival in Australia.
By champion sire Storm Cat, Sophisticat is a sibling to five other stakes-winners and is from US Champion 3YO Filly and blue hen Serena’s Song.