The result of Sunday’s three-year-old feature at Te Rapa was ultimately decided by the judicial committee after the protest siren sounded shortly after runners crossed the finish line in the 1200m contest.

 

Unbeaten filly Sheezallmine was first past the post after leading throughout however an erratic performance over the final 300m, that saw her move out into the path of Qiji Express on more than one occasion, saw connections heading to the enquiry room to settle the battle.

 

After viewing replays and taking evidence from both parties, placings stood with Sheezallmine extending her career record to three wins from three starts.

 

Trainer Daniel Miller admitted he did have some concerns when the siren sounded, but believed the winning margin of more than a length could play in his favour.

 

“I wasn’t surprised when the siren went as I could see she had moved out most of the way down the straight,” he said.

 

“A few people said to me that they thought she might hold onto the win because the margin was over a length back to the second horse, so I was hoping they were right.

 

“In the end I think that’s what it came down to although I’m pretty sure if the other horse had got alongside her, she would have found more as she is really tough and loves a fight.”

 

Miller had entered the Super Easy filly in a rating 72 1200m contest on the day but wanted to test her against a number of runners she may face again in a fortnight at the venue.

 

“Her main aim is the Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes (Gr.3, 1200m) back here in two weeks, so I did want to test her against her some of the better ones that were lining up today,” Miller said.

 

“I could have run her against the older horses but if we are going to throw her in the deep end then this was the best way to test her out.

 

“We thought there might be some more speed in the race, so I did tell Tegan (rider Tegan Newman) to take a sit if something went crazy but when they didn’t go overly hard, she did the right thing and dictated from in front.”

 

Raced by Miller’s parents, John and Marie, Sheezallmine was purchased by John Miller for just $1,000 during the 2017 Festival Sale at Karaka. She is a daughter of Tale Of The Cat mare, Bast and features Gr.1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) winner Khaptingly in her extended pedigree.