Game Fillies Complete Mastercraftsman 1-2 In Listed Feature

A change in tactics saw Lilac Road (3f Mastercraftsman - Lavendar Lane, by Shamardal) record her first black-type win in the Listed Upavon Fillies’ Stakes at Salisbury.

Usually ridden prominently, the William Haggas-trained filly was held up in last on Wednesday, with Tom Marquand waiting until three furlongs out to make his move. Ridden to chase the leader approaching the final furlong, she kept on strongly to lead in the final strides and beat the favourite Technique (Mastercraftsman) by a head on the line. The pair drew three and a half lengths clear of the field.

“That was quite a big tactic change with Lilac Road from William and it was a great call,” Marquand said after the race. “Hopefully this is a new lease of life and Group races are the natural step, and from the feeling I had today, she should be able to hold her own.”

Owned and bred by Jon and Julia Aisbitt, Lilac Road had previously been twice placed in Stakes races, as well as finishing fourth at Group 2 level. The daughter of Mastercraftsman is out of a half-sister to Group 2 scorer Sumbal (Danehill Dancer).