A First Win For Winnie And Akehurst
There are some races that will live long in the memory, maybe not for the masses but they mean something special to certain people. Louise Akehurst will remember June 16th 2024 as it was the day she rode her first winner. She delivered Amazing Winnie perfectly to take the 7f Grace And Dotty Handicap at Doncaster.
Amazing Winnie has not been the most straight forward filly, rarely being the most consistent. That said she has shown signs of ability throughout her short career but never built on that. Following her latest run in April, Winnie was sent to stud and put into foal by Washington DC.
Having come back into the yard Amazing Winnie was looking to improve her race record before starting her next career at stud. The 7f race was her first run back and Louise got the leg up after a break herself. Following an accident last year, Louise took time to recover and this would be her first ride back since.
Breaking on terms, Winnie raced enthusiastically through the early stages. Chasing the leader, Winnie was settled in second spot, taking Louise into the race nicely. The field were all happy to settle in behind the front two as they raced through the first half of the race.
Amazing Winnie travelled well throughout the contest and always had the measure of the front runner. Louise sat nice and patient, despite the filly travelling so well, waiting to unleash her run. Passing the 2f marker Louise gave her mount a squeeze and Winnie picked up to take the lead. Now it was about making her way home as they opened up a lead. Those trying to chase her down were starting to close but had work to do.
Louise stayed in balance and worked away on Winnie. Still holding a length lead entering the final furlong Amazing Winnie was proving very game in front. She was finding more for pressure and as her rivals closed, she pulled out a little bit more. Louise kept working away and the pair repelled the late flourishes from rivals. Amazing Winnie secured her first win by 1/2 length and in turn gave Louise a day to remember.
Fillie’s do tend to improve after going into foal and this looks to be the case for Amazing Winnie. She showed a very willing attitude throughout the race and found plenty under pressure. With the clock ticking she will have limited time to race and so Amazing Winnie could be kept busy now she has a win under her belt. Louise did everything right in her ride on Winnie and fully deserved that highlight win. She looked very tidy and rode patiently throughout the race. Like Winnie, this could be a nice confidence boost to see her step up on her own career.