Bestower lands feature race win for Kris Lees at Newcastle

A mare not known for consistent victories, Bestower, produced a career-best performance when it mattered most, securing a valuable stakes win in The Beauford at her home track, Newcastle.

This was only the fourth win in 35 starts for the mare, and her first since a midweek success last December. Trainer Kris Lees credited jockey Tyler Schiller with his proactive approach to the race.

"He discussed before the race she often hits a flat spot, and he was adamant he wanted to get going before that to help her through it," Lees stated.

"I started to wonder, I hope he hasn't gone too early here. But he knew what he was doing.

"She could have went another lap."

Bestower's win was a first in this staying feature for the prominent Newcastle trainer, who had reservations about running her.

Lees revealed that a benchmark event at Kembla Grange's Gong meeting next Saturday was a viable alternative, but they chose to gamble on the Listed The Beauford.

"To win a stakes race with a mare and a Newcastle bunch of owners, they were rapt when we even decided to go this way," he said.

"We considered a benchmark 78 next week at Kembla, which she ran second in last year, but we went with the stakes race and gave her a chance in better company, and it's come off nicely for her."

The victory gave Schiller the second leg of a black-type double, having earlier guided filly Katoto to victory in the Group 3 Spring Stakes (1600m) for Chris Waller.

While it was Schiller's debut ride on Bestower this campaign, he possessed considerable past experience with the mare. He confessed that he was unsure if his plan to extend the run would pay off.

"When I peeled out at the 800, I still didn't think she'd sustain it," Schiller admitted.

"I knew she'd be strong late, but I thought there'd be something that would outstay us in the class. But with the weight, she's done a great job."

Bestower ($7.50) maintained a strong gallop down the centre of the track to triumph by three lengths from Doctor Askar ($13). Campaldino ($7.50), who led for much of the race, finished third, a further half-length behind.

The heavily backed $2.35 favourite, Savvy Spy, who was chasing his fourth consecutive win, failed to impress, finishing sixth and over seven lengths off the winner.

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