Chaillot returns to the races this afternoon after a 71 week spell. The four-year-old mare will contest a Benchmark 70 at Bendigo (Race 8 – 5:05 pm) over 1300m with Craig Williams riding.
The Testa Rossa mare has a 100% strike rate after winning her first two starts; a Maiden at Ballarat and the Listed ANZAC Day Stakes in April 2019.
Unfortunately, her career was halted due to a fetlock issue. Trainer Archie Alexander took his time in gradually building her work up following this set back. However, in another spate of bad luck, her prep was further delayed by a jaw injury late last year.
A meticulous recovery programme included two months of box rest and three weeks of beach work. Working in the deep sand enabled the mare to fully recuperate and increase her fitness levels.
Returning to Alexander’s Ballarat stables in July, Chaillot continued to build towards a spring return. She won her most recent trial at St Arnaud strongly, with jockey Neil Farley commenting that she had beautiful rhythm and was ready to get to the races.
“She looks very well, she’s eating well and has been working well,” Alexander commented on her long-awaited return. “We’re excited to be back at the races and are going in with an open mind,” he added.
The return to the track is welcome news for a patient group of owners who have persevered with the mare’s road to recovery.
OTI wish connections of Chaillot the best of luck with today’s race and her spring preparation!
