Starspangledbanner Filly Strikes Late For Stakes Success

The progressive Aristia (3f Starspangledbanner - Aloisi, by Kalanisi) overturned the hot favourite to land Friday’s feature at York; the Listed Lyric Fillies’ Stakes.

The Richard Hannon-trained bay made a winning debut in April and went on to claim third at Listed level, but didn’t appear to stay in the Ribblesdale Stakes last time out. Dropping back to ten and a half furlongs, she chased the leaders on the outside under Hayley Turner and was pushed along to challenge approaching the two furlong marker. Running on strongly, she got up close home to deny Coronation Stakes heroine Alpine Star by a short head on the line.

Speaking after the race, the winning rider said, “She’s a really tough filly, and she battled well – and I think having fitness and toughness on her side helped her.”

Owned by Mrs E Roberts, Aristia was a 85,000gns yearling purchase by Will Edmeades from breeder Rathasker Stud. The exciting prospect continues a fantastic season for Starspangledbanner, who kicked off 2021 by siring the first two juvenile Group winners of the season.