In Flight sprouts wings to claim 2025 Bob Charley Stakes

Joe Pride’s In Flight may prefer bog tracks, but she showed her adaptability by prevailing on a softening surface at Randwick in Saturday’s Listed Bob Charley AO Stakes (1100m).

The mare’s previous win came in heavy conditions in the Bright Shadow Stakes, and Pride was worried she might not replicate the performance with the track upgraded from heavy 8 to soft 7 early in the day.

“When this track started drying out, I was a little bit concerned as the best version of this mare is on really wet tracks,” Pride said.

“But the times they are running today aren’t too slow at all.

“So, to come back from winning on a heavy track in Brisbane and get the job done is a very good effort.”

Pride praised her consistency, noting her toughness and growth: “She is up at the right time of year and we will see how she pulls before making any more plans but she is doing a great job.”

“I love her. I wouldn’t say she is a sweet thing, she can be a bit of a tart. But she has all the attributes a good mare needs.”

Jay Ford delivered the winning ride on the $2.35 bookmakers pick, fighting off Brudenell ($21) and Contemporary ($12) in a gritty finish.

“This preparation she just feels like she is on song,” Ford said. “It’s easy to say now but she has two stakes wins to her name and is just oozing confidence.”

Jockey Ash Morgan also had a standout afternoon with a treble, booting home Hidden Motive, Hellfire Express and Millie De Lune.

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