Mattie Nevin wins Nevele R heat

The Mark Jones trained filly Mattie Niven (Downbytheseaside) capitalised on a perfect trip to win todays $20,000 heat of the Nevele R Three Year Old Fillies Series at Ashburton.

“She had a bit of gate speed and followed the right horse. It worked out good,” Jones said.

At the end of the 1700 metre trip Mattie Niven driven by Sam Ottley had a head to spare on Indulge Me who came home late with Song Of Seas a nose back in third.

MATTIE NIVEN REPLAY

“She’s a half-sister to Francent, so we know the family. She did a good job last time in, but she was a bit weak and has come back better this prep. It’s a good family which kept getting better and better and she’s doing that.”

All of the first three home in today’s heat were by Downbytheseaside.

Meanwhile Francent also won at Woodbine Mohawk Park in Canada today, beating Rodeo Drive and Twin B Joe. She ran the mile in 1-48.1.

“We sold Francent because we had this filly coming through, so it was a good business decision. We’ve always liked this one and she’s starting to reward us.”

Jones says winning the second heat of the series makes it easy to map out a pathway to the $200,000 Nevele R Three Year Old Fillies Series Final at Addington on Cup Day.

“It probably makes it a bit easier when you’re not chasing it. She’ll probably have another three or four starts before the final because she’s a lot stronger this time in and she’s holding more condition.”

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink