Thoroughbred Daily News
June 2nd, 2024
Pg. 16
Fashionably Fab picked up right where she left off last year, winning her fifth straight and her first graded race Saturday in the GIII Belle Mahone S. at Woodbine. The win was also the first stakes ride and victory for young apprentice rider Pietro Moran who picked up the mount from Patrick Husbands for trainer Kevin Attard.
The now 4-year-old filly had a brilliant end to her 2023 campaign, reeling off four straight stakes wins in Ontario-bred company and racing exclusively at the stakes level the entire year, winning over both turf and synthetic. Jumping up in class to the graded level for her 2024 season, Fashionably Fab was perhaps a tad overlooked on the board at 7-1 seeing as regular rider Patrick Husbands had opted for 5-2 choice Forever Dixie. Fastest from the middle of the gate, she was quickly matched into stride by Solo Album to her inside and happy to sit second to that rival around the clubhouse turn. Racing in company briefly with Metaphysical (American Freedom) to her outside, Fashionably Fab watched that runner surge past to pressure the leader as the opening quarter went in :24.79. A solo third on the backstretch, she had a clear shot at the front and began to make up steady ground past the quarter pole, splitting the leaders with a strong move into the final furlong. Solo Album was game to her inside but was always second best as Fashionably Fab kept a head in front for the win.
“Obviously, she’s a nice filly,” said Attard. “I wouldn’t say it’s a surprise because she’s worked really well, but it was a big step up in company for her, leaving Ontario-sired horses and going to Grade III company. Fortunately for us, Pietro gave her a dream of a ride.” Moran, who was clearly emotional in the aftermath, added: “She’s a special filly. I’ve been on her, I’ve worked her since before she ever ran her first race, I’ve worked her from the gate. We always knew she was special and I’m thankful to the owners and Kevin for giving me this opportunity. I had a good horse under me.”
Fashionably Fab was freshened and trained at Margaux Farm in the winter of 2023/early spring 2024, this was her first start since departing the farm.
