Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Doncaster Virgin Bet Irish EBF Gillies Fillies' Stakes (Listed Race, 1m2f , 3yo+) horse racing event.
Danielle began the year strong with a victory in the Fillies' Novice Stakes in April. She then stepped up to compete in a couple of listed races and even ventured into Group 2 company, though without much success. The Gosdens decided to give her a break, and upon her return, she impressively secured second place in the St Simon Stakes (Group 3) against male competitors. In this field, on a firmer track and over a shorter distance, she poses a significant threat to her rivals.
The three-year-old Diamond Rain only started racing this year. She clinched victories in both a novice and listed fillies' race. However, she hit a rough patch at Ascot, finishing last in the Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2). With a rest of 142 days and a return to the 1m2f distance, she may rebound, and her 3/1 odds on Unibet reflect the punters' faith in her ability to win. We share their optimism, despite her setback at Royal Ascot.
Estrange is another contender who didn't race as a two-year-old. In August, she was transferred from the Gosdens to David O'Meara and won her debut race for her new trainer promptly. However, her subsequent performance in the John Musker Fillies' Stakes (Listed) saw her finish seventh. She still seems to lack experience.
Treasure claimed victory in her sole start last year but has yet to win this season. Her first race was decent, but she faltered in both the Oaks and at Royal Ascot. After being given a rest, she surprised many with a close second place in the Premier Fillies' Handicap on 5 October, narrowly losing out to Ashariba by a neck.
Albany was pulled up in her final race last year and then went off the radar for a year. She returned in mid-October, winning a handicap at Nottingham. While she has potential, this might prove to be a tough field for her.
