FREYA FASTEST IN TOWCESTER’S EMPRESS STAKES

Ian Fortune

For the second week running, the Graham Holland trained Silverhill Freya set the pace in the bet365 Empress Stakes at Towcester, winning the third semi-final in 29.25, justifying odds of 2-9.

Unfortunately, her kennel companion Bockos Sapphire would exit the stake, finishing third after a slow start in the opening heat.

Silverhill Freya, who was installed hot favourite for outright honours after a magnificent opening round victory, was moderately into stride but displayed fine early dash to challenge and head the fast-starting Chakra on the corner.

It was all very straightforward thereafter with the daughter of Ballymac Bolger and Silverhill Joyce running out a ready five length winner in 29.25. Chakra was second. Expect Silverhill Freya to be installed a hot favourite to land next week’s valuable decider.