Pandora’s Gift Triumphs in the Chelmer Stakes

In the fifth renewal of the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Chelmer Stakes it was Pandora’s Gift who claimed victory in Chelmsford City’s most valuable sprint of the year over six furlongs.

There was strong support for the Stuart Williams trained filly who went off at as 15/8 favourite having had two previous runs and one win under her belt at Chelmsford City. From the outset, it was French raider Tazara who set a demanding pace, leading the pack throughout the race, however, Pandora’s Gift showed determination in the final furlong to clinch her first black type win. Rossa Ryan who was recently crowned All-Weather champion provided an expert ride, surging ahead to seize the win by 2 1/2 lengths, relegating Tazara to a commendable second place.

The £80,000 race has been a popular choice for owners and trainers in recent years attracting fiercely competitive fields, however that had not deterred Stuart Williams. “We were thrilled to win. I think she is a very exciting filly, who is progressing rapidly with racing.” said the Newmarket-based trainer. “We entered her last week in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, we will work back from there. It’s possible we take in a race on turf beforehand.” he added speaking of Pandora’s Gift future.

Connections will also be thrilled to have won the €10,000 voucher through Irish Thoroughbred Marketing’s IRE-Incentive scheme.

Jabaara also put on a strong show, finishing third followed by Ziggy’s Dream and Soprano who had been favourite throughout much of the week.

The Listed fixture concludes what has been an immense Spring programme at Chelmsford City Racecourse which has also featured Good Friday, the Cardinal Stakes and the UK’s first morning meeting with almost £800,000 in prize money awarded within the last five weeks, record entries, significant international participation and terrestrial coverage.

Racing fans will now be looking forward to Chelmsford City’s next Listed feature, The Queen Charlotte Stakes on Sunday 7 July, which has in recent years been won by with multiple Group 1 winners including Highfield Princess and Billesdon Brook.

For more information about the Queen Charlotte Stakes, please click here.