Charm Stone has delivered on her early promise, capturing a maiden Group 1 title with victory in the Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville, guided home by in-form jockey Mark Zahra.
The daughter of I Am Invincible, a $1.55 million yearling, had long hinted at top-class ability, and co-trainer Mick Price expressed deep satisfaction at the result.
“The very pleasing thing is she’s a beautiful mare,” Price said.
“We’ve had her since she was a baby. She’s one of Seamus’ (Mills) yearling buyers and look… just very, very satisfying to get a Group One for those guys, the mare has deserved it.”
Returning from a break after finishing second in the Magic Millions Cup (1300m), Charm Stone ($11 betting) was given a flawless ride to edge out Ameena ($15) by a long neck, with Commemorative ($6.50 equal fav) in third.
The victory was even sweeter after Charm Stone was sidelined for 12 months due to a knee injury sustained after her first Group 1 test.
“She ran in the Golden Rose, ran super, couldn’t get a run, got beat a length and a half, chipped a knee,” Price explained.
“So we gave her all the time she needed. She’s a sizeable sort of a filly at the time, and she just needed time. To Seamus’ credit, when we discuss things, he listens. He’s always been patient and they’ve reaped the benefit of all those decisions.”
Zahra, who had earlier saluted on Benagil in the Group 1 South Australian Oaks (2000m) and on Legacy Bound in the Group 3 Breeders’ Stakes (1200m), completed a memorable treble.
“It’s special. A bit of luck this time last year, a bit more luck this year, but nice to get a couple of good rides for people I ride for, and the races have just worked out, everything went in my favour today,” Zahra said.
Charm Stone will now head towards The Goodwood (1200m), with Price confirming she will join Reserve Bank, who also impressed earlier on the day.
Still, Zahra hinted he might already have a different commitment.
“I might have already locked into one, but we can see. I think Giga Kick’s coming that day. Anyway, we’ll celebrate about this one first,” Zahra said.
