PUTTING ON THE LITZ

In-form filly Litzdeel has won a Victorian dominated edition of the Group 3 SA Fillies’ Classic at Morphettville on Saturday, proving too strong under Zac Spain.

The Danny O’Brien-trained daughter of Dundeel, who is a half-sister to Melbourne Cup winner Vow And Declare, was only narrowly denied last start in the Listed 2800 metre St Leger by American Wolf, with a huge gap to third.

Dropping back 300m, Litzdeel left the gates a $8.50 chance on Saturday, as punters zeroed in on Cavity Bay ($2.70) and Chase Your Dreams ($2.80) late.

But although Liztdeel was there to be beaten, hitting the lead at the top of the straight, the favourites couldn’t reel her in, as O’Brien’s filly continued to find to register a smart victory.

It was an ultra-tough performance, especially for a horse on their first interstate road-trip, but O’Brien's assistant trainer Ellie Morrison said the well-related galloper gave every indication she would run well in the lead-up to Saturday.

“It’s fantastic. There is a big team of owners here today,. And being a direct relative of Vow And Declare as well make it that little bit more special,” Morrison said

“She was impressive last start. She has been going really well this prep and we came here quietly confident that she would put in a good effort today.

Spain, who won his second career G1 in the 2022 Goodwood on Lombardo, was delighted to get a Stakes winner on a day that means a lot to him, and a horse he has done a lot of work on.

“She’s as tough as nails, the little thing. There’s not much of her, but she shows good determination,” he said.

“In the St Leger, I got into a bit of a bumping duel, but she still finished off really strong, and back to the 2500 (metres) she was as fit as a fiddle, and I was happy to push the button a bit early on her.

“It (Goodwood Day) brings back good memories. Racing SA put out a post, and it gets the fire in the belly wanting to ride these good horses.”

Litzdeel's win made her the third stakes winner from broodmare Geblitzt to be trained by O'Brien to a black-type victory, joining Vow And Declare and Galilee Stakes winner Lycurgus.

Story by Dacry Cosgriff for Racing.com

Pics by Terry Hann from Atkins Photography