PRIOR to the $100,000 Belmont Classic (2200m) the Alan Mathews-trained Persian Princes did not attract the attention of many punters.
But despite starting seventh favourite and from barrier 10 at Belmont on Saturday, July 22 Persian Princess looked like she had the race won from the 100m until Jackpot Prince beat her by a head in the final seconds of the race.
The favourite Gatting finished third.
Mathews of Muchea was far from disappointed with Persian Princess’s second placing against the bigger and stronger males.
He said Persian Princess, who is only 15.1 hands but always tried hard, probably got to the front a fraction too soon.
“Not that that was anyone’s fault and hindsight is a wonderful thing,’’ he said.
“She’s a tiny thing and looks like she should be going to the pony club.”
Her second place in the Listed race would increase her opportunity for going to stud.
“It’s a bonus if the fillies are stakes winners or places and this was the last listed race for three-year-olds this season.’’
Mathews said Persian Princess would go for a spell for a couple of months.
When she returned to work she would start in a 1400m race.
He hoped when she returned she showed the same interest in racing.
Depending on what races were available for her he might consider some feature races for mares and fillies around Christmas.
