Fituese raises bar for The Everest

Randwick trainer John Thompson has raised the bar again with Lynward Park-bred mare Fituese following her astonishing victory in the Vale Rick Worthington Hcp (1100m).

Fituese (Deep Field) was all set to head west for the G1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) in November on the back of her LR Denise’s Joy Stakes success in May.  But her first-up win at Rosehill on Saturday has Thompson reassessing her current campaign to include a shot at the $15 million TAB Everest next month.

“Why not?” Thompson said in answer to queries about her chances in the TAB Everest.  “She’s just a winner and we will have to discuss a slot if she fires again in the G2 Premiere Stakes at Randwick next month.”

Lumping equal top weight of 58kg and forced to race against her usual pattern due to the hot early speed, Fituese relaxed well for Rachel King and zoomed late to nail Hilo (Lonhro) in the final bound at Rosehill.

“She is a filly going places,” Thompson said.  “It means a lot to win a race in honour of Rick Worthington.  He was a great friend to everyone in racing.”

The Everest hopeful was foaled by Cattalo (Tiger Hill) who changed hands when Lynward Park bought her for $30,000 at the 2016 Inglis Easter Broodmare Sale.  She was in foal to Deep Field and delivered Fituese the following September.

Fituese has won 6 of her 9 starts and Thompson conceded her victory on Saturday did not go according to plan.  “She’s so good and so adaptable.  She missed the kick so Rachel (King) let her relax,” he added.   “Rachel said it was really nice to feel that engine and turn of foot.”

Cattalo is now owned by Rod and Tania Cosgrove at Mingenew and she has a 2yo filly and yearling filly by Lynward Park sire Mahuta.

Mahuta (Flying Spur) stands at Lynward Park for a $3,300 fee with Bondi (Snitzel) who is booking at $5,500.  Both fees (inc GST).

FITUESE
First-up winner sporting the EvH brand at Rosehill