Estrange bounces back for Gillies glory

Estrange got her career back on track in no uncertain terms when running out a decisive winner of the Virgin Bet Irish EBF Gillies Fillies’ Stakes at Doncaster.

Trained by David O’Meara and owned by Cheveley Park Stud, the striking grey failed to make it to the track until the August of her three-year-old career.

She made a fair impression though, bolting up by five and a half lengths at Goodwood in testing ground.

Turned out again less than three weeks later at Yarmouth in a Listed race, she failed to strike a blow and had not been seen since.

Ridden by James Doyle, Estrange was niggled along with half a mile to go as Diamond Rain moved menacingly into contention on her first run since the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot.

When Estrange hit top gear, there was an inevitability about the result and she beat 7-4 favourite Danielle by a length and three-quarters.

Doyle said: “She didn’t do a lot wrong at Yarmouth. The ground was probably quicker than she wants and she ran into a wall of horses two out.

“She’s got the ability to switch off which is key in this deep ground, so I put her to sleep early and was able to ride a race on her.

“I think there’s plenty to come. She stays well and next year she’ll have plenty of options. She’s got a good engine.”

Matthew Sigsworth of owner Cheveley Park Stud said: “Obviously we’re delighted, she’s always shown a lot of ability but it didn’t really work out for her at Yarmouth.

“We’ve been waiting for this race knowing the ground would be ideal and she’s had plenty of time since Yarmouth.

“She’s still learning and she’ll be a better filly next year when she’ll have plenty of options at home and abroad.”