Brudenell & Zahra storm home to land Abell Stakes for Kris Lees

[Wandering Eyes]

Brudenell ridden by Mark Zahra wins the Lawn Rules Abell Stakes at Moonee Valley Racecourse on February 28, 2025 in Moonee Ponds, Australia. (Photo by George Salpigtidis/Racing Photos)

Brudenell showcased his class and experience to claim the Listed Abell Stakes at Moonee Valley on Friday, February 28.

Trained by Kris Lees and ridden by Mark Zahra, the five-year-old gelding secured his tenth career victory in impressive style.

Jumping well, Brudenell settled just off the speed while Regal Zeus and Apache Song set the early tempo.

As the field approached the home turn, Zahra angled Brudenell into the clear, and with a sharp sprint, he overpowered Regal Zeus and London’s Image in the final strides to win by three-quarters of a length as the $3.10 favourite with the top online bookmakers.

Moonee Valley Listed Abell Stakes Race Replay – Brudenell

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Post-race, Zahra praised Brudenell’s acceleration and professionalism.

“Nice gate, lobbed in a beautiful spot, and he’s got a short, sharp sprint. I just sort of waited to press the go button, and when I did, it was pretty much all over,” Zahra said.

“He had to carry the weight, but with the run he had and his good turn of foot, he was always going to be hard to beat.”

Brudenell’s victory adds to a strong career record of 25 starts for 10 wins and over $850,000 in prizemoney.

London’s Image, who finished third, was unlucky after missing the start and over-racing early, while Regal Zeus fought on bravely for second.

Brudenell is expected to continue his campaign targeting further stakes races, with his turn of foot making him a force to be reckoned with in upcoming sprints.

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