Formality has replicated her run first-up run in this afternoon’s Group 2 Furious Stakes (1200m) this afternoon; holding on in a photo to win the fillies feature on Chelmsford Stakes Day.

Formality held on to beat Champagne Cuddles in a photo finish to the Furious Stakes this afternoon. Photo: Steve Hart

Jumping from the gates well, jockey Kerrin McEvoy pushed the filly over from the wide gate and took a position in transit just outside early leader Joyfilly Ours; who set a fair tempo on the rails.

Settling into a good rhythm, the daughter of Fastnet Rock kicked to the lead upon arriving in the final straight and continued to find; completely a perfectly-timed sprint to win the race by the flare of her nostrils from Champagne Cuddles.

McEvoy was thrilled with the feel offered up by the filly in the Furious Stakes and believes that she is nearing peak fitness.

“She’s brilliant from the gates and has got a great will to win,” McEvoy said.

“She relaxed nicely. The ex-kiwi filly kicked up and led and was in a nice rhythm and I was pretty happy turning for home.

“She showed a really good turn of foot today, so she’s improved again and she just wants to get the job done and win, so well done to the Hayes team.

“I only just held on then, but I was still hitting the line strong, so I’m sure they’ll try 1400m and the Golden Rose.”

Co-trainer Ben Hayes was on hand for Formality’s win in the Furious Stakes and confirmed that the Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) remains her major campaign target.

“She was very tough again,”

“Just coming down the straight she might not have seen them with the one-eyed blinker on and they were all flying late, but it was a really good win.

“I think at the moment, the way she’s going, we’ll lean towards the Golden Rose with her and head that way.

“That’s the number one plan and I’d say we’ll go there. I wouldn’t say that she was weakening at the end of that race, she was strong and I think 1400m will suit her.”

Formality is currently available at 2017 Golden Rose odds of $15 with leading online bookie Ladbrokes.com.au.