Waikato filly shows resolve to tough out maiden win

Queen Leonora showed some strong resolve to secure her maiden win at Bendigo on Wednesday.

After being challenged and clearly headed in the run to the judge the Savabeel filly surged late to take out the 1600m event, pictured in the centre.

Jockey James Winks was very complimentary of the Waikato Stud owned and bred filly’s performance.

“She had to pick herself up off the canvas in the final furlong, but her stamina came to the fore late and that added with her grit and desire to win got her over the line. It was a very good performance,” Winks said.

It was the three-year-old’s first win at start four, having placed twice - once in town - before having no luck on the shifting Seymour track at start three.

“She will only get better out in trip and she is still learning all the time, so onwards and upwards with her.”

Pic by Racing Photos