Talented mare Politeness has returned to winning form in impressive fashion this afternoon; producing a strong final straight sprint to beat some of the Spring Carnival’s most exciting mares to the line in the Group 3 How Now Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield.
Politeness beat a fast-finishing Griante to win the How Now Stakes at Caulfield. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos
Politeness was charged with overcoming the wide and awkward barrier 13 for her run in the 2015 How Now Stakes, but did her chances of success no harm when jumping well and settling in good position within the field of fourteen as Lesley’s Choice, Girl Guide and Tycoon Tara set a reasonable tempo.
Rounding onto the final straight wide and with plenty to do, the Street Sense mare quickly spooled up before charging forward; comfortably overcoming the leading runners and sustaining a strong-enough sprint to see off a fast-finishing Griante; Jessy Belle boxing on for third.
Trainer Robert Smerdon was delighted with Politeness’s performance for success in the How Now Stakes first-up and revealed the Group 1 Myer Classic (1600m) at Flemington on Derby Day will figure as her major racing target this time.
“I was really happy. I stood there and looked at her when she was going out and her coat was great and general condition was great,” Smerdon said.
“The she started doing that stupid pig-rooting routine she goes through aso I was happy then because she hadn’t done it, and if she doesn’t do that you’re a bit worried.
“She came off a tough autumn, didn’t have long off but she’s had a really trouble-free prep and everything she’s done pleases.
“We came here thinking she was there to run really well, she runs really well fresh and has run terrific here before. She’s a talented mare and we just want to try to get a Group 1 with her.
“I think the 1400m for the Tristarc in a couple of weeks and then we’ll sort of head forward and probably end up in the Myer Classic again with a Group 1 mares’ opportunity.”
In taking out the 2015 How Now Stakes, Politeness has now posted six wins and a further four minors through her 24 career starts.
