Previously known as ‘Tom Melbourne’s little sister’, Araaja is forging a reputation of her own in France. Coming off a most impressive first up win at Bordeaux she will step up in grade tonight at the same track and distance (Bordeaux Race 4, 10.30PM AEDST).
Trained by Antoine De Watrigant, this 3YO daughter of Iffraaj spelled very well over the winter and continues to improve with race experience. She shares a mother with Tom Melbourne, Roshanak, and she was purchased by OTI as both a racing and broodmare prospect.
Jockey, Valentin Seguy, has partnered Araaja throughout her career. Seguy settled Araaja noticeably closer first up at the mile and he always had plenty of horse under him in winning by 1.5L – with a big gap back to third.
Antoine De Watrigant reports that Araaja is in good order heading into her second-up run but is mindful that this is a much tougher assignment. She’s a filly who will no doubt be better suited over 2000M and beyond in future runs, but the camp is confident of a competitive effort on Friday.
Racing in France is stepping up as the cold winter months give way to spring sunshine and it’s hoped Araaja will graduate to the 3YO Classics later in the season. This filly is sure to provide OTI partners with much excitement in coming months and we wish them all the best for a strong performance at Bordeaux.
