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Posted 2026-01-10 13:44:26  
Wish List slams her way to Breeders' Cup Berth in Paddock Stakes

58 year old Andrew Fortune’s reputation for delivering when it matters was on full display at Kenilworth, where he steered Wish List to a career-defining victory in the Grade 1 Paddock Stakes, a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” Challenge race.

Fortune produced a tactically sharp ride on the three-year-old filly, taking advantage of an opportunity that arose when he was switched off the filly and bided his time. Double Grand Slam, the Justin Snaith stable’s first choice for visiting international jockey Oisin Murphy was well back in the field and expected to run on but was supposedly in need of the run and didn't finish her race off adequately. The decision proved inspired, with Fortune extracting every ounce from the Legislate filly to land one of the most important wins of his recent career. Fortune was jocked off Double Grand Slam in favour of Murphy so it was sweet revenge. 

Despite arriving as a lightly raced contender and rated just 111, Wish List was quietly supported in the betting, firming from 14/1 into 8/1 by the time the gates opened. She showed maturity well beyond her experience in the weight-for-age contest, travelling smoothly before asserting late to secure her automatic berth for the Breeders’ Cup.

The finish was tight behind her. Reet Petite chased her home in second, Rainbow Lorikeet claimed third, and the Murphy-ridden Double Grand Slam had to settle for fourth.

Fortune was full of admiration for his mount afterwards, saying: “I thought I’d have a big day tomorrow (reminiscing abt his thoughts the night before), what a game filly, she is a little thing.”

For Wish List, the victory marks a major leap forward from promising filly to proven Grade 1 performer. For Fortune, it was a reminder that experience, timing, and confidence still count for plenty at the highest level — especially on a day when opportunity knocked and he answered it perfectly.

Wish List's sire, Legislate, stands at Cheveley Stud. 

Wish List

Sex: Filly Age: 3
Sire: LEGISLATE
Dam: WIND CHILL
Dam Sire: SILVANO (GER)
Breeder: Maine Chance Farms (Pty) Ltd
Owner: Mr J I Bloch & Nancy Hossack
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