As the racing season concludes, London's Image, a standout contender in Western Australia, gears up for a pivotal challenge in the TABtouch-Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic, aiming for another prestigious blacktype victory.
As the season comes to an end, London’s Image—one of the most determined competitors in the Western Australian racing circuit—returns for what may be her last opportunity at securing another blacktype victory in Saturday’s TABtouch-Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic (1400m) at Ascot.
London’s Image, a filly that has consistently exceeded expectations, has established her position among blacktype competitors with an impressive victory in the Burgess Queen Stakes (1400m) earlier this month. Her unwavering performance over the last few weeks highlights her remarkable determination. She is now set to compete for the third week in a row, aiming to further reinforce her growing reputation.
Her latest performances—a runner-up finish in the Placid Ark Stakes (1200m) and a fifth-place result in the Group 2 WA Guineas (1600m) on November 16 and 23—demonstrate her strong determination. During the WA Guineas, London’s Image took the lead for a significant portion of the race before being overtaken in the final moments by the impressive finish of Storyville, who won by two lengths. Even with this setback, trainer Ryan Hill remained optimistic about her performance.
“We were very happy with her performance,” Hill stated. “She took the lead during the Guineas and fought valiantly. Declan Bates, her jockey, admitted afterward that he may have gone a bit too early. Given another chance, he would have restrained her and conserved her energy for a stronger finish.”
Although Bates was disappointed with not securing a position in the top three, Hill remains hopeful. “I was really pleased with her performance. She was a bit fatigued after the race but has recovered remarkably well. She’s back to her lively self in the paddock after her bath on Monday,” he remarked.
As Saturday's $125,000 feature race approaches, London’s Image is preparing to take on a tough lineup. She will compete against notable challengers including the Placid Ark Stakes winner, Wind And The Lion, and fellow contenders Mai Aloha and Sir Dreamalot, each representing the aspirations of their respective teams. Nonetheless, trainer Ryan Hill remains optimistic that his filly can outperform Wind And The Lion this time, particularly given the favorable weight shift.
“This time, we have a more favorable weight situation against Wind And The Lion,” Hill remarked, highlighting both his respect for the competitor and an insightful understanding of tactical chances. “Trainer Sean Casey and jockey Chris Parnham wouldn’t have him in the race if they didn’t think he was capable, but I am confident that with a more strategic run and positioning, London’s Image can finish in front of him this time.”
In their last meeting during the Placid Ark, London’s Image was positioned three-wide for a significant part of the race, whereas Chris Parnham’s mount, Wind And The Lion, enjoyed a more sheltered spot towards the back. "This time, we will aim for a more strategic position, keeping her close to the rail and allowing her to make a strong charge as we approach the corner," Hill stated. "This approach should provide her with a great opportunity to be challenging to outrun."
Looking forward, Hill intends to give London’s Image a break following this race, planning to return her for the Magic Millions 3YO Trophy (1200m) at Pinjarra in February. This 3-year-old filly has already established herself as a dependable competitor, boasting three victories and three placements from 11 races. Although she began her career with a relatively low price tag, Hill has consistently held high expectations for her.
“She has definitely become a favorite in the stable. We have always thought highly of her,” Hill remarked. “She kicked off her journey with us last year in the inaugural two-year-old race and went on to secure a victory as a two-year-old later that season. She was not costly at all, but everything she has achieved since then has been a pleasant surprise.”
At present, London’s Image is set for her last attempt at securing another blacktype victory—a deserving conclusion for a filly who has already established herself as a resilient and skilled competitor. Regardless of the result, her performances this year have cemented her reputation as an emerging talent in Western Australian racing.
