Stella Finds Her Groove In Illingworth Classic

TRAINER Gary Fahey had long strived to secure another Ladbrokes Illingworth Classic title, and his talented youngster Stella Shadows lived up to expectations by claiming victory in the prestigious Tasbred feature in Launceston on Monday night.

The late Des Illingworth was widely regarded as one of the state's finest greyhound administrators, and the long-standing association Fahey had with Des added profound significance to winning it for a second time as a trainer, honouring his legacy.

Stella Shadows showed class and exceptional field sense to land the $16,350-to-the-winner feature coming from box three.

“I was quite taken by the performance,” Fahey proudly stated of Stella Shadows.

“She's proven to be a strong 500m chaser, and being a good railer has made it easy for her to handle the Launceston track.

“While not being the greatest beginner, Stella Shadows has demonstrated remarkable strength and continues to improve significantly.”

From the inside draw, the daughter of Feral Franky and Sacred Shadow didn't start well but managed to secure a smooth run along the rail out of the straight.

She moved from last to midfield, putting herself in contention as she chased the leaders.

Once clear off the back straight, Stella Shadows maintained her rails run, powering through beneath the likes of Rojo Jojo and Wynburn Sonny to race away triumphantly, winning by nearly three lengths with an impressive time of 29.84.

Stella Shadows has now won four races in 15 starts with five minors placings and over $36,000 in prizemoney, with the Tasmanian Hall of Fame trainer racing this brindle chaser with his daughter Carol Martin and her husband Steve Martin.

She also becomes the seventh greyhound since Volume Up to complete the Launceston Breeders – Illingworth Classic double.

“It's one of the races I really love to win, Des Illingworth was such a great man for our industry,” Gary said.

“There was a remarkable era in our sport when individuals such as Des and Peter Wright (former HGRC secretary/manager) and Ray Foley (former LGRC secretary/manager) were at the helm. They were exceptional individuals and an absolute pleasure to deal with.

“Winning the Illingworth Classic for a third time is such an honour and every time we won, Des would send us a congratulatory letter. That's just the kind of person he was – always happy to see others succeed. Des is deeply missed by everyone who knew him.”

Gary Fahey's famous Dennes Point line has now produced three Illingworth Classic winners from his Mangalore property, with Lil' Miss Marny (x Spring Gun) being prepared by Pat Ryan to win the 2016 edition of the race.

Just Browsing was also Gary's first ever Ladbrokes Illingworth Classic winner as a trainer back in 2018.

Gary has hinted that the Tasmanian Country Oaks in Launceston will be the next target for Stella Shadows.

Meanwhile, champion stayer Raider's Guide, which finished down the track in the recent Ladbrokes 715 at The Gardens in New South Wales, will now be freshened up and prepared for a tilt at the upcoming Group 1 Sandown Cup (715m).