A win for Peter

It seemed Simply Xtravagant was determined to pay her respects by winning on the Pakenham Synthetic on Monday, October 3.

One of the filly’s part-owners, Peter Katelanis passed away recently, and at Pakenham, she would not hear of defeat.

After taking the lead on straightening in the G’day Ink Pakenham Fillies & Mares Maiden (1400m), Simply Extravagant was challenged from inside and out.

However, jockey Dean Holland, wearing the colours of Mr Katelanis, urged the filly and she never gave up the advantage.

On the line, Simply Xtravagant ($7.50) half a half-length to spare from Bless Her Soul ($9.50) with Queen of Fire ($3.50 eq fav), a head away third.

Trainers Tony & Calvin McEvoy have had great black type success with horses raced by Mr Katelanis and his family and the win would have been special.

Trainer Calvin McEvoy said it had been a very good win.

“She did a good job,” McEvoy said.

“At the 300-metre mark it looked like she would get run over, but she toughed it out.

“She is still learning.

“It was great to get a win in these colours.

“The late Peter Katelanis was a terrific racing supporter, and supporter of our brand, so it was nice to win for his family and Seymour Bloodstock as well.”

McEvoy said he believed Simply Xtravagant would be even better over 1600 metres.

“We won’t throw her in the deep end too soon, but just hopes she continues to improve.”

Winning jockey Dean Holland was impressed by the filly’s toughness.

“She was fit and ready to go today,” Holland said.

“We took luck out of the equation, she jumped fast and positioned outside the leader.

“To her credit, they challenged her, but when they got to her, she really fought again.

“There is plenty more in store for her.

“We had it very easy outside the lead, and I was able to cuddle her.

“The horse on the outside challenged her and she beat it off, then the one came on the inside and really spurred her on again.”