The Tony Gollan-trained 2-year-old Pembrey (Prague) delivered one of the more dominant juvenile performances of the weekend, crushing her rivals by just under five-and-a-half lengths on debut at Eagle Farm.
Given a soft steer in front by Ben Thompson, the filly jumped sharply, controlled the tempo and never looked in danger. Swift Dragon (Dracarys), the second favourite, attempted to apply pressure soon after straightening after sitting handy, but that challenge was short-lived as Pembrey quickly asserted her superiority.
Oregon Coast (Portland Sky) improved off her debut sixth to run on well for second, while Apostle (NZ) (St Mark’s Basilica {Fr}) caught the eye when finishing third on debut.
Gollan was understandably taken with the performance and suggested bigger stages may await.
“You can only beat what you are up against and gee she did it well,” Gollan said from Sydney where he was to watch his stable star Antino run later in the day.
“We will get Pembrey home and have a look at her. But I would definitely say she could end up racing down in Sydney soon enough.”
Sales info: Pembrey was offered by Vinery Stud at the 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale Book 2 where she failed to meet her $20,000 reserve, she is now raced by her breeders Kia Ora Stud, who also stand her sire Prague.
Pedigree info: Pembrey is out of the G2 Edward Manifold Stakes winner Se Sauver (Bel Esprit), who has produced nine runners to race for eight winners, with the best of them being the three-time winner Amplify (Microphone) who has also placed in the Listed Gold Coast Bracelet.
Se Sauver is well-related being a half-sister to the Matt Laurie-trained G1 South Australian Derby winner Escado (Casino Prince), who was also successful in another two Group 3 staying races, so there is plenty of reason to think Pembrey may even get better over further.
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