Golden Rose Goal for Star Fastnet Filly

Trained by the Hayes / Dabernig partnership, talented filly Formality (3f Fastnet Rock x Jolie's Shinju, by Jolie's Halo) was brilliant in winning the Group II ATC Silver Shadow Stakes at her first run back from a spell and was able to repeat that performance with another tenacious victory in the Group II ATC Furious Stakes over 1200 metres at Randwick on Saturday. Formality was always up on the pace for Kerrin McEvoy and refused to surrender in a tight finish to claim a half head win over Champagne Cuddles.

Formality was a modest $120,000 Inglis Easter purchase from the Coolmore draft by Inglis as agent and runs for Coolmore and partners for whom she has won four of seven starts earning $585,200.

Co-trainer Ben Hayes was impressed with the win, but doubted Coolmore Stud would open their slot for the $10 million Everest to Formality on the strength of her last two victories. "She's probably not dominating her races. It's up to them but the Golden Rose looks a very suitable race,” Hayes said. "That's the number one plan and I'd say we'll go there." Bred by Dr K Tan and foaled and raised at Coolmore, Formality is the best of four winners from four foals to race from 2009 Singapore Horse of the Year, Jolie’s Shinju (Jpn), a daughter of the Halo sire Jolie’s Halo.

Given her pedigree and courage at the finish, Hayes believes the step up to 1400m in the Golden Rose will not be an issue.

"I wouldn't say she was weakening at the end of that race. She was strong, I think 1400 will suit her,” he said. "She's got plenty of improvement in her. Her coat's still falling out as you can see." Formality’s dam Jolie’s Shinju is due to foal to Choisir.