Frilled, pictured right, wins at The Valley. (Image: Racing Photos)
Damien Oliver quipped he wished trainer Matthew Smith had told him to go faster after he discovered Frilled had failed by 0.01 seconds to become joint leader in the Ladbrokes 955 metres challenge after her win in a heat on Friday night.
The undefeated Frilled showed her great speed to lead from the outset and then she had to defy a late challenge from Rattle And Bang close to the line.
She Dances recorded a time of 54.65 seconds, which was just off Shirshov’s time of 54.64 seconds set on September 29.
The trainer of the winner of the fastest horse in the Ladbrokes Challenge 955 metres series collects $55,000.
The victory gave Oliver his second win for the night having also won the opening race on Celui.
Frilled’s Warwick Farm-based trained Matthew Smith, who also has a satellite base at Pakenham, said she was challenged and fought back, which was the sign of a good horse.
Oliver said Frilled was fast and still had upside as she had a lot to learn.
“Not many string that many together off their first start, so a good job and really well-placed by Matty. She’s a genuine short-course horse, loves the speed and kick off the bend, so she’s really suited here tonight,” Oliver said.