Extreme Choice Fillies Make a Splash in France: A Story of Bold Breeding and Training
In the world of horse racing, the story of Primetime Emmy's winning debut at Deauville is a testament to the power of bold breeding and training strategies. This tale, unfolding in the heart of France, showcases the potential of Australian-bred fillies and the impact of a dedicated trainer. Here's why this achievement is truly remarkable.
The Bold Move of Matthew Sandblom
Australian owner/breeder Matthew Sandblom's decision to send two Extreme Choice fillies to France was a daring one. Sandblom, known for his love of the stallion Extreme Choice, wanted to prove its champion status beyond Australian shores. This move required a significant investment and a leap of faith, but the results speak for themselves.
Primetime Emmy's Impressive Debut
Primetime Emmy, one of the fillies, was trained by Francis-Henri Graffard and made an immediate impact. In the 1200m juvenile newcomer fillies maiden, she ran out an easy two and a half length winner, with Mickael Barzalona in the saddle. What's even more impressive is that she ran a second faster than the colts division, solidifying her dominance.
Graffard's Praise and Future Potential
Graffard, the trainer, was full of praise for Primetime Emmy. He highlighted her recent improvement and the positive results of her training. Graffard believes there's a lot of room for improvement, and the distance of six furlongs could be a key factor in her future success. The fact that she accelerated instantly when asked shows her potential for further development.
A Legacy of Success
Primetime Emmy's success is not an isolated incident. She is a half-sister to two juvenile stakes-winners, Thurlow and Three Kings, and her dam, Princess Emmy, is a reliable stakes-winning producer. Princess Emmy's 10 foals have produced nine winners, showcasing a consistent line of successful horses.
The Impact of Extreme Choice
Extreme Choice, the stallion, has become a flagship sire for Newgate Farm. Standing at a fee of $385,000 this spring, he has already proven his worth with Primetime Emmy's victory. This win marks the first European winner for Extreme Choice, further cementing his reputation as a champion stallion.
A Global Impact
The story of Primetime Emmy's success has broader implications. It highlights the potential for Australian-bred horses to excel in international competitions. It also underscores the importance of dedicated training and the impact of a skilled trainer like Graffard. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and passion of those involved.
In conclusion, Primetime Emmy's winning debut at Deauville is a remarkable achievement. It showcases the power of bold breeding strategies, the impact of dedicated training, and the potential for Australian-bred horses to excel globally. This story is a reminder that sometimes, taking a leap of faith can lead to extraordinary results.