Oaks bound filly claims Keith Nolan Classic

A runner-up in the G1 VRC Oaks at her final start of her last preparation, three-year-old Bernardini filly Zanbagh was having her third start this time in, recording an impressive victory in the G3 Keith F Nolan Classic at Kembla Grange over 1600m on March 23.

The fifth winner in the race for trainer Guy Walter, with his most recent being two years back with the now four time G1-winning Commands mare Appearance, the progeny of the Darley stallions have won the race for the past three years.

Ridden a little more forward than usual, jockey Blake Shinn had the filly handy in the run and when the field made the home turn she was in an attacking position, taking the lead and holding off the Gai Waterhouse-trained Role Model to record a length victory.

Set to head to the G1 Vinery Stud Stakes over 2000m at her next start, followed by the G1 ATC Oaks (2400m) the start after that, Zanbagh is aiming to emulate her dam Wild Iris who was successful in the Oaks, winning by three-and-a-quarter lengths.

The second filly out of the G1-winning Spectrum mare Wild Iris, Zanbagh was bred by Mr Sandy Tait. Wild Irish has a yearling full-brother to Zanbagh and has a weanling half-brother by New Approach.

The 27th Stakes winner for her sire, Zanbagh was the second in a space of 24 hours after the G3 victory of Romansh in the G3 Excelsior Handicap, Bernardini has been represented by G1 winners Boban, Alpha, Stay Thirsty and To Honour And Serve.

Bernardini stands the 2014 season for $100,000 live foal, stands and nurses.