The daughter of Bettor’s Delight appeared untroubled in dispatching a high quality field of free-for-all pacers which included former top juvenile Major Mark and 2006 New Zealand Derby winner Pay Me Christian.
In a solid run 2600m (mobile) race driver Ricky May took the brilliant mare to the front early from a handy draw before giving way to Mach Banner and John Dunn, from there Carabella sprinted too sharply along the passing lane comfortably holding Major Mark (Parked mostly) by a short margin at the line. Third home was Ohoka Dallas, the winners time 3.11.9 with the final sectionals in 56.7 and 28.8. For trainer Brendon Hill the economical run was just what the doctor ordered first-up for his stable star.
“She did a bit early but got a nice trip after, it was all about doing the job as softly as we could and that run was perfect,” Hill said. Carabella took her tally to 14 wins from 15 starts with stake earnings now totalling $582,000, with the expectation of more to come as she prepares to take on the country’s best in the up-coming mares features at Alexandra Park in Auckland.
“She will travel North Monday and race Friday night ($30,000 Group Three Northern Breeders Stakes) and again next week ($100,000 Group One Queen Of Hearts). We had her a bit pretty last night, she had a nice healthy blow which you’d expect on a warm night. She’s pulled up super, licked her bowl clean and we’re all good to go,” Hill confirmed.
Last night’s other training success for Brendon Hill, Ten Diamonds, will not make the trip North. Carabella will instead be accompanied by Dakota Grace.