Group opportunities lie ahead for Alfa Kellenic

Group opportunities lie ahead for Craig Lidster’s "one in a million" filly, Alfa Kellenic, after she secured her sixth consecutive victory this year in the Ayr Silver Cup on Saturday.

The daughter of Havana Grey has enjoyed an exceptional season, shedding her maiden status on the all-weather in January before transitioning to turf in the summer. Since then, she has become a winning machine, notching up five straight victories while progressing through the handicap ranks into more competitive fields.

Following a significant win at York during the Ebor meeting, she was the 9-2 favourite for the Silver Cup at Ayr, where she triumphed again, crossing the line a length and three-quarters ahead under 3lb-claimer William Pyle.

Lidster is now considering stepping her upgrade, with options to race in France or remain closer to home to pursue black type.

"She’s such a tough individual, and it’s phenomenal to have her in the yard. She’s done us proud," he said. "She doesn’t reveal how good she is at home; it’s at the track where she really shines."

"She makes everything look simple at home. She has a great mindset and is incredibly straightforward."

Lidster is eyeing four potential races: a Listed fillies’ race at Newmarket in a couple of weeks (Boadicea Stakes on October 12), a Group Three at Ascot (Bengough Stakes on October 5), and two options at Chantilly—one Listed and one Group Three.

"She’s absolutely earned this after her performance in the Silver Cup. She faced tough competition under top weight, so credit is due," he added. 

"She put her head down and galloped to the line. I couldn’t be more proud of her. Her consistency over these six runs speaks volumes; she’s truly one in a million to me."