In a breathtaking display of talent and determination, Sheza Alibi (Saxon Warrior) lit up the track at Doncaster, producing a performance that will be remembered for years. The 3YO filly, purchased for just $10,000 on Inglis Digital, surged from last to first to claim the G1 Doncaster Mile by an emphatic 4.3 lengths, cementing her place among Australia’s elite.
Drawn in barrier 13, Sheza Alibi’s ride by jockey Jamie Melham initially saw her settle further back than expected. Owner Fred Noffke and co-trainer Peter Moody admitted they had envisioned a position closer to the leaders. But once Melham guided the filly to the outside approaching the home bend, she exploded in a dazzling finish that left the racing world in awe.
Sheza Alibi now joins the elite group of 117 Inglis graduates to capture a G1 since 2018 and becomes the first 3YO filly to triumph in the Doncaster since champion Sunline in 1999. Her record continues to impress: seven wins from ten starts, with only three minor placings, and career earnings surpassing $3.58 million.
Queensland farmer Fred Noffke recalled the moment he purchased the filly on Inglis Digital as a weanling in June 2023. “I did some homework on her before I bid. I liked the consistency in the family. They all ran, they all won, and they were all fertile. Every penny I paid for her was worth it!” he said. Noffke admitted the filly’s far-back position today caused a brief pang of worry. “I wanted to be closer to Autumn Boy than she was, but Jamie knew what she was doing. She went like a Ferrari, and I’m sure there’s more to come.”
Co-trainer Peter Moody, renowned for training the undefeated superstar Black Caviar, praised the filly’s extraordinary performance. “I’ve been blessed to train some of the greatest, but this filly is just amazing. I’m not saying she’s Black Caviar, but wow, how good! She’s just a special horse. Where’s the ceiling? You just don’t know.” Moody added, “This is one of Australia’s great races. Well done to Freddy Noffke, what a story—the $10,000 filly.”
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