How Alfa Kellenic’s Sixth Straight Win Sparked Group Race Ambitions for Lidster's Stable Star

 In a remarkable display of grit and consistency, Craig Lidster's star filly, Alfa Kellenic, secured her sixth successive victory of the season in the Ayr Silver Cup on Saturday. Under the hands of 3lb-claimer William Pyle, the filly powered through the finish line, leaving her rivals behind and stamping her authority as one of the brightest talents in the British racing scene.

This stunning success in Scotland follows an incredible winning streak, which has seen Alfa Kellenic rise from a maiden win on the all-weather in January to conquering the turf through summer, culminating in her crowning moment at Ayr. Now, with the racing world watching closely, bigger opportunities beckon for the "one in a million" filly, as Group and Listed races across England and France are set firmly in Lidster’s sights.

A Filly Who Comes Alive on the Track

For Craig Lidster, Alfa Kellenic's transformation from a maiden winner to a dominant force on the track has been nothing short of astounding. Speaking after the Silver Cup triumph, the trainer couldn't contain his pride.

"She doesn't show how good she is at home; it's when she gets to the track that she comes alive," Lidster shared with emotion. "She makes everything so simple at home. She's got a great mind about her, so straightforward, and when she gets to the track, it’s like she switches into another gear.”

🤩#GoffsGrad Alfa Kellenic makes it 6️⃣ wins in a row in emphatic style in the @ayrracecourse Silver Cup for @C_LidsterRacing @thegoodracingco @SimonMapletoft & @Paul_Hanagan

The @WhitsburyManor Havana Grey filly was sold by @MickleyStud at #GoffsOctober pic.twitter.com/VELIMQyNEn

— Goffs UK (@GoffsUK) September 21, 2024

 The daughter of Havana Grey certainly showcased that "gear" at Ayr, where she ran as the 9-2 favorite, shouldering top weight against a highly competitive field. Despite the pressure, Alfa Kellenic made it look easy, galloping to the line with a commanding length-and-three-quarters win, reinforcing her reputation as a filly not to be underestimated.

Bigger Goals on the Horizon: France or Group Glory?

Having worked her way through the handicap ranks with a string of wins, Alfa Kellenic’s journey is far from over. Lidster now has his eyes on loftier targets for his stable star, with four major races under consideration.

"There are four races that we're looking at," Lidster revealed, listing a series of prestigious races that could mark the next chapter in Alfa Kellenic’s career. "There's a Listed fillies' race at Newmarket in a couple of weeks (Boadicea Stakes, October 12), there's a Group Three at Ascot coming up (Bengough Stakes, October 5), and there are two races at Chantilly – a Listed race and a Group Three."

The decision on which path Alfa Kellenic will take remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: she has more than earned her shot at Group company after Saturday’s triumph. Lidster emphasized just how deserving she is of her place in top-tier competition: “She's definitely earned it from what she did in the Silver Cup, all day long. She ran against a lot of very good horses under top weight, so credit where credit is due."

A Filly Like No Other: Toughness and Talent Combined

For Lidster, Alfa Kellenic’s success is about more than just her talent. It’s her unyielding toughness, determination, and sheer will to win that sets her apart from the pack. The filly’s ability to dig deep and consistently produce her best has made her a standout in the yard, and a firm favorite among the team.

"She's such a tough individual, it's phenomenal to have her in the yard. She has done us proud," Lidster beamed, clearly emotional as he reflected on her accomplishments. "How she has conducted herself these last six runs has just been a testament to herself, she's one in a million to me."

Indeed, Alfa Kellenic’s rise has been a testament to resilience. From shedding her maiden status in January to winning a valuable race at York during the Ebor meeting, and now claiming a memorable victory in the Ayr Silver Cup, the filly has built an impressive resume in a short space of time.

William Pyle’s Masterful Ride

Equally impressive in Alfa Kellenic’s success was young jockey William Pyle, who played a key role in guiding her to victory at Ayr. His 3lb claim was invaluable in helping her overcome the heavy burden of top weight, and his calm, composed ride ensured that she was well-positioned throughout the race to strike when the moment came.

Pyle’s ride perfectly complemented the filly’s fighting spirit, and together they forged a winning combination that looks set to take on even greater challenges in the weeks and months ahead.

The Road Ahead: Alfa Kellenic's Time to Shine

With her latest victory behind her, the future looks bright for Alfa Kellenic. Whether her next challenge takes her to Newmarket, Ascot, or even across the Channel to France, one thing is clear: the racing world hasn’t seen the best of this filly yet. As Craig Lidster and his team prepare for the next steps, they do so knowing they have a horse who can go toe-to-toe with the very best in the sport.

In a year marked by consistent brilliance, Alfa Kellenic's journey has been nothing short of spectacular, and the racing world waits with bated breath to see where her story goes next.