SAHorseracing.com
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GR 3 CHAMPAGNE STAKES: SPARKLING WIN FOR PRICELESS JEWEL

The Gr 3 eDiamond Champagne Stakes, run over 1200m at Kenilworth on Saturday, turned into a procession as hot favourite Priceless Jewel (SAF) proved too strong for the opposition. The Which Doctor (SAF) ran on well for second ahead of Captainofmysoul (SAF) and Knock 'Em Out (SAF).

Knock 'Em Out was clearly taking no prisoners and she blazed a trail in front, going about four lengths clear of Priceless Jewel, with Captainofmysoul and The Which Doctor next best. Als Bonanza and Cosmic Flower were further back with Butterfly Girl at the rear.

Knock 'Em Out still had a big lead entering the last furlong and favourite-backers may have experienced a few nervous moments as Priceless Jewel seemed to take a while to respond to jockey Kevin Shea's urgings. Once she hit top stride, though, it was race over. She powered past the tiring Knock 'Em Out and crossed the line 3.50 lengths clear of The Which Doctor, the latter trying gamely to make a race of it but clearly outgunned on the day.

Priceless Jewel, a model of consistency, has been a fine advertisement for her sire Ashaawes (USA) and has now won eight of her 18 starts, to go with six places. She's bumped some stiff company along the way and this was her third feature victory. She's proven to be as tough and genuine as they come and this victory will have enhanced her already considerable paddock value.

5 b m Ashaawes (USA) - So Royal (ZIM) by Kahir Almaydan (IRE)
Mr J W & Mrs J K Armitage & Mr B Marcus
Bred by Mr G J Armitage
Winning trainer: Adam Marcus

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