Fashionably Fab (Michael Burns)
Chris Lomon/Woodbine Communications
TORONTO— Fashionably Fab and apprentice jockey Pietro Moran were at the top of their respective games in the $135,000 Belle Mahone (G3), on Saturday at Woodbine.
The start of the 1 1/16-mile main track race for fillies and mares, 4-year-olds and up, saw Solo Album get away smartly from the gate and top the charts through an opening quarter in :24.79, followed by Metaphysical and Fashionably Fab.
Solo Album remained a half-length clear of Metaphysical after a half in :48.79, as Moran, son of Woodbine journeyman David Moran, kept a patient hand with Fashionable Fab in third.
As the leaders rounded the final turn, Fashionably Fab, riding a four-race (all stakes) win streak, burst in between her foes, and set her sights on a game Solo Album.
It set the stage for a riveting back-and-forth battle down the lane, with Fashionably Fab and Moran eking out a hard-fought neck win in a time of 1:43.73. Forever Dixie came on for third and Metaphysical was fourth. Tito’s Calling and Witch Hazel were scratched.
“The trip was perfect, but first of all I want to thank the owners and Kevin especially, everyone who has helped me along the way,” said Moran.
“She’s a special filly,” he continued. “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.”
Bred and owned by Terra Farms, Fashionably Fab, trained by Kevin Attard, was making her 4-year-old debut, coming off a 2023 campaign that yielded four wins and a third from seven starts.
Overall, the 4-year-old bay daughter of Silent (JPN)-Flashy’s Legacy is 8-0-2 from 12 starts.
“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 3 company. Fortunately for us, Pietro gave her a dream of a ride.
“Pietro’s worked for us for a few years now and not only is he a great jockey, but a better human being. I love this kid and he’s going to be a great rider. I’m just so happy that he was part of this today. He’s breezed this filly on numerous occasions, and he just gave her a masterful ride. I’m just so happy for him.”
Fashionably Fab, a Sovereign Award finalist in the Champion 3-year-old Female category, paid $16.20 for the win.
