More black type for Sisstar

Classy sprinting mare Sisstar is going to chase a Group One victory following her courageous win at Caulfield on Saturday, April 17.

The young sister to champion mare Sunlight, trained by Tony & Calvin McEvoy, notched her second stakes win with victory in the $140,000 Listed Widden Victoria El Esprit Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.

Trainer Calvin McEvoy said the mare would return to Adelaide for the $500,000 Group One TAB Classic (1200m), formerly known as the Robert Sangster Stakes at Morphettville on May 1.

Because of her bloodlines, the daughter of Zoustar has been in the shadows of her big sister, but is now making her own mark on the racing scene.

The mare began well but wanted to race keenly and dashed to the front before holding off her rivals in the run to the finish.

Sisstar ($10), ridden by William Pike, fought on strongly up the home straight to score a length win from Lyre ($9) with Sword Of Mercy ($3.60 fav), a head away third.

Calvin McEvoy said Sisstar never had a good head carriage and was quite a difficult ride.

“I think William (Pike) did the right thing and just went with her.

“She’s a very versatile, quick mare that can run 955 metres, today she showed she can run 1100m and I believe she will get 1200m.

“This was a target race to pick up some more black type, now it is on to the Sangster.

“She’s a multiple black type winner and has earned a chance at the Group One in Adelaide.”

Pike said he had been well versed about Sisstar’s racing style.

“There was plenty of warning by the whole camp and even Luke Currie said ‘Do not fire her up’,” Pike said.

“I suppose they know her spot on and they were right. She’s very brave to run on after over-racing but I suppose that’s her. I think she likes a fight.”

Pike was asked post-race at which point he felt in control of Sisstar during the race, prompting the response: “Cantering back after the race.”