G1 Canadian victory for La Pelosa

La Pelosa was the ready winner of the G1 Natalma Stakes over a mile on turf at Woodbine, Canada, on Sunday, 16 September.

The two-year-old filly is now guaranteed a start in the mile G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies’ Turf at Churchill Downs, USA, on 2 November.

La Pelosa, stepping up to a mile for the first time, missed the break under Jamie Spencer and raced in fourth last of the 13 runners.

She started to make progress at half-way and came with a run turning for home to be fifth on straightening up.

La Pelosa continued to improve her position and challenged for the lead with a furlong left.

She soon went to the front and was able to be eased down close home, scoring by a length in 1m 33.70s on firm going.

Alex Merriam, assistant to trainer Charlie Appleby, commented: “She is a lovely filly and we are delighted with her performance.

“La Pelosa shipped well and has done everything right which is a big ask for a two-year-old filly.

“We are really pleased with her. Charlie spends a lot of time mapping out programmes for the horses and obviously a 'Win and You Are In' G1 race for the Breeders’ Cup and good prize money is persuasive.”

Jamie Spencer added: “She did everything right.

“The pace was strong, though I was initially further back than I originally planned.

“She was very brave in the straight when I asked her for her full effort.”

La Pelosa has raced consistently over six and seven furlongs in Britain, finishing runner-up in two G3 races.