Trainer swerved an option overseas and it paid off.
Tarawa Triumphs in the Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes: Dermot Weld’s Bold Gamble Pays Off
Trainer’s Decision to Stay in Ireland Brings Group Three Victory at the Curragh
In a strategic decision that has paid off handsomely, legendary trainer Dermot Weld chose to keep Tarawa in Ireland for the Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes at the Curragh, rather than sending her to America. The four-year-old filly rewarded his faith with a brilliant performance, securing Group Three honours and adding another prestigious victory to her already impressive record.
Weld, who had been mulling over a trip to Kentucky Downs for Tarawa, opted to stay closer to home, a decision that now looks like a masterstroke. Tarawa, who had consistently placed in Group races and won the Listed Glencairn Stakes in June, proved her mettle yet again over the nine-furlong trip at the Curragh. Rated as an 11-2 chance for this contest, she lived up to the expectations of her connections and delighted fans who watched the action unfold.
Chris Hayes Delivers a Tactical Masterclass
Jockey Chris Hayes executed a flawless ride, placing Tarawa in front with two furlongs to go. While challengers Hanalia and Wingspan closed in late, it was Tarawa’s day as she crossed the finish line a length and a quarter ahead. The second and third-placed fillies were separated by just a head in a thrilling race, but none could match the class and consistency of Weld’s charge.
Reflecting on the victory, Weld was full of praise for his filly’s consistent performances at the highest level. "It was a good performance by her, she's been a model of consistency," said the trainer. "I know she's been placed more times in Group races, but she has a lot of black type, and having won a stakes race at Leopardstown, it was just lovely to go and win a Group race with her today."
Weld was particularly impressed with the way Tarawa handled the race, making a move early to secure a front-running position, a strategy that has proven successful in past races. "I thought she had it won a long way out," he admitted. "I appreciate she got first run on them a little bit, but the track is riding quick today, and the plan was to sit very handy because they are not coming from off the pace. The way every race is working out today, you have to sit very handy. That's what he [Hayes] did, and the rest is history."
A Testament to Tarawa’s Versatility and Consistency
Weld’s decision to stay in Ireland rather than pursue a potential race in America is even more remarkable considering how close he came to sending Tarawa across the Atlantic. The filly was entered in a graded race at Kentucky Downs, and the team gave the idea serious consideration. However, staying on familiar turf has only added to her accomplishments, which now include Group success alongside her previous stakes win.
"When she won her Listed race at Leopardstown, that’s what she did," Weld continued. "And she ran a good race at Leopardstown when she was second to a good horse of Aidan's [Diego Velazquez]. I think a mile-and-one is her correct trip. She's after winning her stakes and her group race over a mile-and-one."
The victory further cements Tarawa’s reputation as a reliable and talented performer, one who has consistently risen to the occasion in competitive company. Her black-type success is a testament to her ability to perform at the highest level, and her latest win confirms that she’s not done adding to her accolades just yet.
Eyes Set on Group One Glory?
Looking ahead, Weld hasn’t ruled out an ambitious next step for his star filly. Tarawa is entered in the Coolmore America "Justify" Matron Stakes, a Group One contest at Leopardstown on September 14. While Weld remains cautious, he hasn’t closed the door on what would be a monumental challenge.
"We'll see how she comes out of it," he said, referring to her recovery from today’s race. "That could be a possibility. It depends on the makeup of the Matron. She's very good around Leopardstown, so we'll give it definite consideration."
For now, Weld and his team will savor Tarawa’s triumph at the Curragh, knowing that they’ve made the right call in staying local. With Group success under her belt and a possible Matron Stakes challenge on the horizon, Tarawa’s future looks as bright as ever.
A Masterclass in Training and Decision-Making
Dermot Weld’s decision to remain in Ireland with Tarawa rather than making the transatlantic trip is a prime example of the wisdom and strategic thinking that has made him one of the most respected trainers in the sport. He understood his filly’s strengths and made the bold call to stick to what works best, ultimately leading to another Group victory for the stable. What’s particularly impressive about Tarawa’s win is not just her performance, but the consistency she has shown throughout her career. It’s a rare quality to see a horse continually perform at such a high level, especially in races of this caliber. And now, with Group Three success under her belt, the future is wide open for Tarawa and her team. Whether she takes on Group One company next or continues to build on her already impressive résumé, there’s no doubt that Tarawa is a filly to watch in the coming months.
