Group Three glory for Newmarket raider in Firth of Clyde.
In a thrilling display of talent and determination, Sky Majesty maintained her unbeaten record with a hard-fought success in the Virgin Bet Every Saturday Money Back Firth of Clyde Stakes at Ayr. Despite having just one race under her belt, the three-year-old filly showed maturity and poise far beyond her inexperience, holding off fierce competition to secure victory in the Group Three contest.
With a field of 13 fillies, the stage was set for a fierce showdown. Sky Majesty, trained by William Haggas, was sent off as the 16-5 favourite, a testament to the potential she had shown in her lone previous outing. While others in the race had more experience and accolades, Sky Majesty’s raw talent and determination shone through, making her the one to watch from the outset.
Sky Majesty's Rise to Victory
For a horse that had only run once before, Sky Majesty handled herself with remarkable composure. Jockey Callum Rodriguez kept her steady throughout the early stages of the race, positioning her perfectly in the middle of the pack. As the field entered the final furlong, Rodriguez made his move, guiding the young filly down the center of the track to challenge the leaders.
It was a move that paid off as Sky Majesty accelerated impressively, showing speed and stamina that belied her lack of race experience. Grand Marques, an Irish challenger, made a strong bid to overtake her, but Sky Majesty wasn’t done yet. With every stride, the filly dug deeper, refusing to let her lead slip away. Maw Lam, who had previously finished third in the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot, also mounted a late charge, but Sky Majesty was resolute, holding on to win by a neck with a short head separating her from third place.
William Haggas: “She’s Come a Long Way”
Trainer William Haggas could not hide his delight after the race, praising the filly for her toughness and ability to handle pressure against more experienced rivals. He remarked that she did really well and had to be really tough today. He also noted that she has come a long way in a short time, pointing out how she didn’t win her first race by far and hasn’t won by far today, but that shows her fighting spirit.
Haggas was particularly impressed with how Sky Majesty handled the competition, considering she was up against fillies with more racing experience. He expressed how pleasing the performance was, especially seeing how much she kept giving when the pressure was on. There’s still a lot more to come from her.
A Look to the Future
Sky Majesty’s victory opens up exciting possibilities for the future. Haggas suggested that the filly is likely to have at least one more run before the end of the season, although nothing has been set in stone. One option being considered is the Criterium de Maisons-Laffitte at Chantilly on October 12, a Group Two race against the boys. Haggas mentioned that it might be worth a look, especially given that she seems to enjoy a bit more cut in the ground.
The potential of facing male horses in a Group Two contest would be a significant step up for Sky Majesty, but her performance in the Firth of Clyde Stakes suggests she is more than capable of rising to the challenge. Her stamina, determination, and ability to dig deep under pressure make her a serious contender in any race she enters.
Jockey’s View: Callum Rodriguez’s Perfect Ride
Much of Sky Majesty’s success can be attributed to the masterful ride by Callum Rodriguez, who has built a strong partnership with the filly. Rodriguez knew he had plenty of horse underneath him as they entered the final furlong and timed his move to perfection. For a horse with so little experience, she felt very straightforward, Rodriguez noted, and he was confident she would stay the trip. When he asked her for more, she really responded.
The jockey also praised Sky Majesty’s temperament, noting how calmly she handled the intense pace of the race. He pointed out how it’s not easy going up against more experienced fillies, but she settled well and kept a cool head. When they hit the final stretch, he knew they had a real chance. Rodriguez was delighted with how she performed.
The Competition: Grand Marques and Maw Lam Push to the Limit
While Sky Majesty emerged victorious, both Grand Marques and Maw Lam put in commendable performances. Grand Marques, who had been a major threat throughout the race, came up just short in her attempt to overhaul Sky Majesty. Meanwhile, Maw Lam, who was heavily favored following her Queen Mary Stakes run, pushed hard but couldn’t quite close the gap.
Both fillies are expected to regroup and remain top contenders in their future races, but Sky Majesty’s victory on this day proved she is the filly to beat moving forward.
Sky Majesty: A Filly Destined for Greatness?
With this latest win, Sky Majesty is quickly building a reputation as a horse with exceptional promise. Her unbeaten record speaks volumes, and as she gains more experience, it’s likely we’ll continue to see her at the forefront of high-profile races. Whether she competes in the Criterium de Maisons-Laffitte or another major race this season, one thing is clear: Sky Majesty is a name that will be sticking around in the winner’s circle for a long time to come.
