SPREYTON trainer Vicki Rhind has her eyes on a interstate campaign for her three-year-old Bel Price following the filly’s impressive win in the Veolia 3YO Classic over 1200 metres at The TOTE Racing Centre in Launceston on Wednesday.
Bel Price was given the gun run in the race by visiting Victorian rider Nikita McLean who had the filly settled third on the rails behind the leader to the home turn.
When McLean eased Bel Price ($5.50 to $4.60) off the fence to challenge she burst clear and then staved off a late bid from the well-backed Galibier ($6.60).
Bel Price hit the line a half-length clear of Galibier with race leader and favourite Heaven’s Choice ($4.30) hanging on gamely for third a neck astern.
Rhind said Bel Price was an exciting filly.
“I think she’s very special, although she’s probably still six to 12 months away from being at her best,” Rhind said.
“I’m sure we’ll cross the Strait for a short campaign in Melbourne.”
“We won’t set our sights too high – we’ll start with a midweek race and see how she goes,” the trainer said.
Bel Price is owned and raced by Graebar Park Pty Ltd that is managed by Graeme Gathercole, for whom Rhind has trained for many years.
“Graeme (Gathercole) has been a great supporter and has sent me a lot of nice horses over the years,” she said.