Australian-trained sprinter Asfoora finally secured her first Group One victory on British soil, storming to an impressive win in the Nunthorpe Stakes at York on Friday. The Henry Dwyer-trained mare, who had previously finished second at Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood, justified the faith of her connections with a dominant performance under jockey Oisin Murphy.
Dwyer, visibly thrilled, told ITV Racing: “It’d be a bad night to be a beer in York, I’d reckon,” before heading to the winner’s enclosure to celebrate. Asfoora, sent off at 11-1, tracked the early pace set by Night Raider before quickening into a decisive lead inside the final furlong as the pacesetter drifted right.
The victory was a testament to the dedication of Dwyer and groom Chenelle Ellis, who has been with Asfoora since her arrival in Britain in May. “Last year we had it easy. This year has been a little bit harder given that we were only here two weeks before Ascot,” Ellis said. “I said after galloping on Tuesday morning that I don’t think they’re going to beat her, and she deserves it more than anything.”
Asfoora may now extend her stay in the northern hemisphere, with a potential trip to Ireland for the Flying Five Stakes on Irish Champions Weekend next month.
