The Darren Weir-trained mare Felicienne completed a notable Group double for Emirate Park Stud's Al Maher at Flemington on Saturday when she claimed the drama packed $150,000 Group III Schweppervescence Trophy (1600m).
With apprentice Harry Coffey in the saddle, Felicienne hugged the rail from her inside barrier to defeat the Peter Moody-trained Metaphorical (Dylan Thomas) by one and a quarter length with Alaskan Rose (Encosta de Lago) two and three-quarter lengths back in third.(photo Grant Courtney)
But it did not come without incident as the defending champion Noble Protector threw her jockey, Craig William,s as they jumped. She raced on causing some interference including to the winner.
"What a humungous thrill," Coffey said.
"To get a win, especially for Darren Weir, it's amazing.
"I know there are a lot bigger races to win but I'm thrilled.
In earning her first stakes win, Felicienne advances her record to 5 wins, 3 seconds and 2 thirds from 15 starts for earnings of $196,095.
The win will be welcomed by breeder John Foote who will be offering a Hinchinbrook half-sister to Felicienne in the Edinglassie draft at the upcoming Easter Yearling sale.
Felicienne failed to make her $50,000 reserve at the 2013 Easter Yearling sale.
She is the fourth live foal of the winning Canny Lad mare Nena Candida a half-sister to Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes winner Nadeem and the Hong Kong Group 1 winner Billion Win.
Nena Candida has a colt foal by Camelot (IRE) and was bred back to WS Cox Plate hero Adelaide (IRE) last spring.
Earlier in the day, Al Maher was represented by the highly promising Badawiya in the Group II AV Kewney Stakes (1400m).
Felicienne becomes the 29th stakes-winner for the son of Danehill who will have six lots on offer at the Adelaide Magic Millions Yearling sale.
