While most people were focused on Annabel Neasham’s win with Zaaki in the Group 1 Mackinnon Stakes on Saturday, the attention of her OTI owners was 2000 kilometres north at Eagle Farm. There, Annabel provided a first for OTI; a win with a two-year-old before Christmas.
Lady Laguna, a strong filly by first season stallion Overshare, had to contend with a wide barrier and greenness before finishing strongly to win by a length. She handled the long trip from Sydney with ease and appears to have taken no harm from the race.
Lady Laguna produces a stylish performance on debut for @ANeashamRacing and @OTIRacing.
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) November 6, 2021
Nice winner for Overshare. @Spendthrift_au pic.twitter.com/tHSKzxvblr
For her owners in the partnership, some of them first-timers, the win was a real thrill. It not only vindicated Annabel’s opinion that the filly was an above average youngster, but it also gave them the confidence that this would not be her last win. Indeed with much of her purchase money already repaid, they could ultimately have quite a valuable broodmare on their hands.
OTI is fortunate to enjoy an excellent relationship with Spendthrift Farm, where the filly was purchased privately as a yearling. Once broken in, Annabel alternated Lady Laguna’s education with short periods in work, followed by short spells. This not only meant the filly arrived at her race well educated, but she was also relatively fresh. Annabel’s opinion that she should have another start or two before a break is required seems quite realistic.
For her sire, Overshare, Lady Laguna provided a win for his first progeny to race. No doubt with such a focus on two-year-old types at the upcoming yearling sales, the win will not go unnoticed by other buyers and trainers. Lady Laguna’s dam, Catalina de Lago, a daughter of Encosta de Lago, was a three time winner and hails from stout female bloodlines.
We all hope the good times continue for her lucky owners, and her sire!