Ghisoni And Pearls Return In Light Fingers

Time/Date - 13.55hrs local time/Saturday, February 13, 2016
Racecourse/Country - Randwick/Australia
Surface/Distance - Turf/1200m

The unbeaten filly Ghisoni heads a double-handed mission for Godolphin in the G2 Light Fingers Stakes at Randwick on Saturday, February 13.

In a double-act complemented by the presence of the talented Pearls, the race appeals as one of the most highly anticipated for the stable on the first G1 day of the Australian Autumn.

Ghisoni (John O'Shea/James McDonald) has created a strong impression with wins at her only two starts, the most recent in a ratings event at Rosehill last November.

That followed a success in a maiden fillies' event at Warwick Farm, and while trainer John O'Shea is conscious of the rise in class confronting her on Saturday, he is confident she is capable of handling it.

"She's grown really well since her first prep so there should be some improvement in her," O'Shea said.

"Everything she's done since she's been back in work suggests she has improved and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"She worked very nicely on Wednesday morning, she should acquit herself well."

Pearls (John O'Shea/Sam Clipperton) is also resuming from her summer break in the Light Fingers - and she's also ready to run well.

The daughter of Exceed And Excel reached the peak of her Spring form with victory in the G2 Tea Rose Stakes at Rosehill last September.

Stepped up to G1 level, she ran another strong race when fourth in the Flight Stakes at her fourth race start, after which she went for a well-deserved break.

"I haven't been able to fault her preparation," O'Shea said.

'She's trialled very well and she's a proven Stakes-class filly."

Among the opposition to the Godolphin fillies is the well-performed Stay With Me, a Street Cry filly from the champion mare Miss Finland, and Kangarilla Joy, a filly by Lonhro who has won her past two starts.