The fact that Godolphin kept such a valuable mare as Savatiano in training indicated they believe they have some unfinished business with the six-year-old daughter of Street Cry (IRE).
When Hugh Bowman guided the James Cummings-trained mare to an all the way win in Saturday’s Group II Iron Jack Expressway Stakes at Rosehill, it was fifth success at Group II level for Savatiano.
The Group 1 George Main Stakes and Group 1 Epsom Handicap winner Kolding (Ocean Park) chased gamely but could get no closer than two lengths with Emeralds (Sebring) one and a quarter lengths back in third.
Runner-up to The Bostonian in the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick 12 months ago, Savatiano will try to break through at the elite level in that race at her next start.
“She will likely be kept fresh for the Canterbury Stakes in March,” Cummings said.
“She has returned well and can take control of these sought of races.
“She is very, very mature now and credit has to go to the boys for keeping her in training for another season.
“I think she might be capable of repaying the faith.”
The 6yo daughter of Street Cry (IRE) advances her record to twelve wins, nine seconds and three thirds from 37 starts with earnings of $2,166,260.
Savatiano is a half-sister to the dual Listed stakes-winner Athiri (Lonhro), who placed in the Group II Blue Diamond Prelude, Group III Magic Night Stakes and Group III Kindergarten Stakes.
They are out of the winning Redoute’s Choice mare Retsina, a daughter of the top-class racemare Star Shiraz, purchased by Darley for $1,125,000 at the 2007 Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale.
Star Shiraz was sold to Aquis Farm for $200,000, ten years later.
Retsina has a 2yo colt by Hallowed Crown named Vilana, a yearling colt by Lonhro and a colt foal by Street Boss (USA).
The daughter of Redoute’s Choice was covered by Blue Point (IRE) last spring.
