It was Derby Day at Eagle Farm on Saturday – the meeting got off to the best possible start with Campton Racings super mare Bengal Diamond showing her quality.
Our four-year-old mare showed her quality landing an exciting win in the $85,000 Benchmark 85. Before the home turn though – it was looking bleak.
A Thrilling Finish at Eagle Farm
As the big field rounded the home turn, things weren’t looking entirely favourable for the daughter of Flying Artie. She found herself blocked behind a wall of horses, unable to go through the middle.
But jockey Ben Thompson didn’t panic. Realizing the traffic ahead wasn’t going to part, Thompson made the bold decision to shift her out wide—six, then seven horses deep into the track. Once she saw clear air, Bengal Diamond did what she does best. Unleashing her trademark turn of foot, she chewed up the turf and reeled in the leaders, lunging forward to grab the victory in the very shadows of the winning post.
It was a heart-stopping watch, but a testament to both Thompson’s cool head, Campton Racings training and the mare’s sheer will to win.
The Numbers Tell the Story
With that thrilling victory in the bag, Bengal Diamond’s career statistics are starting to look seriously impressive:
- Starts: 25
- Wins: 7
- Career Prize Money: Over $282,000
To rack up seven wins from just twenty-five starts in such a competitive racing landscape speaks volumes about her consistency and class.
Winning Connections at win 7 for Bengal Diamond
Next Stop: The $500,000 Magic Millions National Classic
There is no rest for the wicked—or the incredibly talented. This coming Saturday, Bengal Diamond is stepping up to the $500,000 Magic Millions National Classic back at Eagle Farm.
This prestigious feature race is open to fillies and mares aged three years old and upwards, and it’s shaping up to be an absolute ripper.
And Ben Thompson, who timed her weekend run to absolute perfection, has retained the ride. Their chemistry on the track is undeniable.
Thank you to our super team at Campton Racing for all their work – to our awesome owners, congratulations to each of you : Rob Luck, A Cliffe, Mrs Chandler, W Chandler, Mrs Mifsud, J Mifsud, James Milson and Sue Milson. And best wishes for this weekends big race.