Chateau Lafaite wins impressively at Randwick

Last season’s 10-length Australian Oaks winner Royal Descent leaves large hoofprints to fill, but her year-younger sister Chateau Lafaite is well ahead of schedule with two wins and a second already on her record.

The 3YO daughter of Redoute’s Choice came from the back of the field today at Randwick to claim a last-stride victory over 1400 metres at Randwick today for her owner-breeder Gerry Harvey. Gamblestown and Malice filled the placings.

This time last year Royal Descent was still unraced. Her winning debut came just before Christmas, and she progressed rapidly from there to win the ATC Adrian Konx S. G3 and the Australian Oaks G1 in April. 

Royal Descent has added three further Group placings to her record this spring, including an excellent second in the ATC George Main S. G1, and is among the favourites for next Saturday’s $2.5 million Caulfield Cup G1.  

Chris Waller, who prepares both fillies, said a Melbourne trip will be considered for Chateau Lafaite but, like her sister, she is more likely to reach top form next year.

He says, “She’s still learning her role. We’re very proud to see her do that this early in her career. If there’s a nice race over 1400 metres in three weeks in Melbourne then we’ll have a look.”

Royal Descent and Chateau Lafaite are from the Group 2-winning mare Mulan Princess (by Kaapstad), a half-sister to multiple Group winner and sire Falkirk, and three-quarter sister to 1993 Epsom & Toorak Handicap winner Golden Sword.