By Jordyn Bublitz

Some of the best Fillies and Mares the country has to offer were on display on Friday night at Alexandra Park, with the running of two Group 1 features; the TAB Queen of Diamonds and the Woodlands Stud Queen of Hearts.

Ya Rite Darl claimed all honours in the Queen of Diamonds, delivering a composed and professional performance to secure group one glory.

Trained by Robert and Jenna Dunn, the filly lined up as the only three-year-old in a field of older more seasoned mares, adding extra weight to her success.

Drawn awkwardly from barrier 12, John Dunn had little option but to settle towards the tail of the field. With a lap remaining he made his move, sending her forward three-wide to take up the parked position for the final 800 metres. 

Despite the mid-race workload, the filly travelled strongly turning for home and maintained her momentum down the straight, pulling clear to win by half a length. 
It was a tidy, disciplined performance and an encouraging sign given her recent racing had been hampered by inopportune breaks in running.

On this occasion, her manners held together when it mattered most.

The Woodlands Stud Queen of Hearts delivered a contrasting type of contest, with a decisive winner but an unfortunate incident marring the finish. 
Francent, who has shown a clear affinity for Alexandra Park, produced another strong display to continue her northern form.

Driven by Samantha Ottley, the pair settled safely in the running line from their second row draw. Ottley elected to move mid-race, taking control of the pace and letting the talented mare dictate her own terms. 

Turning for home, her main threat appeared to come from Captain’s Mistress, who was building momentum late before a sudden equipment failure saw trainer-driver Nathan Williamson dislodged from the sulky.

Francent remained professional through the disruption and went on to score the Group 1 victory.

Following the finish, Ottley showed excellent horsemanship by safely catching the loose Captain’s Mistress, preventing any further risk to the horse or those nearby.

*When an update on Nathan Williamson is available we will have that on our website*Â