Phoenix Thoroughbreds look to have a filly of some promise on their hands after Lady Lilly won on debut at Saratoga on Sunday, August 2.
The juvenile led from gate to wire in a display of talent and heart. Given positive bulletins beforehand by trainer Steve Asmussen, the daughter of Darley’s Nyquist didn’t disappoint her owners or backers, who sent her off as the favourite.
In a run that still suggested she is learning her job, Lady Lilly was rousted from the gates by Jockey Joel Rosario. It took a bit of time to best her rivals in the race for the early lead but the Phoenix owned filly was settled in the lead before the start of the turn. Still there to be shot at entering the stretch, Lady Lilly had to dig deep as she kicked away from the field. Mo Dean arrived on the scene to challenge, charging form the back of the pack, but the winner had already done enough too secure victory.