Flashy mare Bjorn Pretty, who was in a paddock and facing retirement only a week ago, is now guaranteed a start at the Warrnambool May carnival after storming home to land the final heat of the Neville Wilson Series at Hamilton on Friday.
The four-year-old’s racing days appeared over after she had won once in 21 starts but she is now a leading contender at the ‘Bool on May 3.
“She will go there now for sure,” said trainer Jamie Edwards.
Jockey Craig Robertson has already put his hand up to stay on the daughter of High Chaparral.
“I have got no reason to get off her,” Robertson said.
“She ran right through the line and the 1700m at Warrnambool on a wet track will suit her.”
Jamie said Bjorn Pretty appreciates the softer tracks which led to the decision to run her at Hamilton instead sending her straight to a broodmare sale.
Barrier 10 in the 13-horse field looked the biggest problem and despite a betting drift from $7.50 to $11 she was able to get a nice run midfield about with eight lengths off the lead in the solidly run 1600m race.
Robertson said Bjorn Pretty made ground down the hill without reaching her top and she responded well to a crack with the whip before the home turn.
“I just wanted to make sure she was there (on the turn) and from that point on I always thought she was going to win the race,” Roberson said.
Bjorn Pretty charged home the final 100 metres to score by a neck from Dangerous Rebel and pacemaker Tucson Arizona, which had held a four-length lead in the home straight.
Jamie said the “For Sale” sign was still up on Bjorn Pretty.
“She is still for sale and hopefully she will be worth even more after Warrnambool.”