Firestorm wins tight G2 Millie Fox Stakes finish
Jason Collett made the most of a wide run at Rosehill, guiding Firestorm to an impressive victory in the Millie Fox Stakes.
The four-year-old daughter of Satono Aladdin notched her first black-type win, strengthening her credentials as a future broodmare with a breakthrough performance in the Group 2, 1300m fillies and mares feature.
"Jason rode her beautifully, and she was well-prepared," trainer Chris Waller said.
"She’d had two trials, and we knew she had ability, but stepping up to Group 2 level and winning was a big achievement for her."
Starting at $7.50, Firestorm held off a strong challenge from $31 betting app roughie Dark Glitter to win by a long head, while Scarlet Oak ($10) finished 1½ lengths away in third.
Makarena ($1.65) started as the short-priced favourite but had to settle for fourth. Collett took pride in Firestorm’s ability to finish ahead of the highly regarded rival.
"She felt great today," Collett said.
"Even though we were three pairs back and the tempo wasn’t strong, I always believed she’d hit the line hard.
"Makarena is a serious filly, controlling the race from up front, and I was a little concerned. But at the 150m, Firestorm just took off.
"That was really impressive."
Tyler Schiller, who rode Makarena, was positive about her effort despite the result.
"I thought she ran well first-up," he said.
"She just had to do a bit too much work early on."
Firestorm’s win added another milestone to Chris Waller’s record, marking his seventh Millie Fox Stakes victory since 2012.
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