So Graceful scored an overdue win on Sunday in the Grand Casino Maiden (1600m) at Wingatui.
The five-year-old mare was having her third start this preparation after finishing strongly in both her previous efforts to finish second and fifth respectively.
Partnered by Kylie Williams on Sunday, the daughter of So You Think raced midfield with Williams starting to move forward with 800m to go.
On hitting the straight there was a wall of horses in front of them but Williams bided her time and when the gap presented they edged through with So Graceful going on to win by half a length.
Trainer Andrew Carston said he was feeling positive heading into the race with So Graceful unlucky to have not cleared maiden ranks before.
“It was good to get a win with So Graceful,” he said. “She has had her issues along the way but we were pretty confident going into this as she had gone two super races this preparation from bad draws.
“It was a nice ride from Kylie and a handy barrier helped. She won well. We have no set plans with her but will see how she comes through the race.”
Carston was also thrilled for stable apprentice Yogesh Atchamah who rode three winners on the day.
“We were very happy to see Yogesh get three winners on Sunday. He’s riding well so it’s great to see him get those wins on the board.”
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