Smart Newcomer Kicks Off Double For Calyx

Zandita (2f Calyx - Zanoubiya, by Dalakhani) completed the first leg of a double for Calyx on Wednesday when making a smart debut in the Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Lingfield.

Charlie Johnston’s representative raced in touch throughout the seven furlong contest and improved to lead approaching the final furlong. Ridden soon after, she ran on well to win by two lengths under Franny Norton, with another length back to Elderflower (Ten Sovereigns) in third.

Zandita is owned by Markus Graff and was bred by Linacre House Stud.

Later that afternoon at Dundalk, a change of tactics saw Enchanted Garden (2f Calyx - Flowers Will Bloom, by Fastnet Rock) get off the mark under Rory Cleary.

The Tony Mullins-trained filly showed promise over course and distance last month, and appeared to appreciate racing closer to the pace on Wednesday. The bay was ridden to challenge approaching the final furlong and led close home to win by a nose.

“It was a step forward and I think she should improve again,” the winning rider said. “She's a big filly - whatever she is doing now, she will be a lovely three-year-old. Tony liked her and has always liked her. I rode her work last week for him and she felt great, so we were hoping for a big run today and she did it for us.”

Enchanted Garden is owned by Ms Olive Walsh and bred by Exors of the late Sir Robert Ogden. She is out of a half-sister to the 93-rated Hot Fuss (Calyx), who was beaten a length and a quarter in the Listed Chesham Stakes and later finished fourth in the Group 3 Acomb Stakes.