One year ago, She Will Reign (Aus) (Manhattan Rain {Aus}) was sparking jubilant celebrations among her large group of owners when handing the Darby Racing partnership its first Golden Slipper, and the 3-year-old looks for her third Group 1 win in Friday evening's G1 William Reid S. at Moonee Valley. Winner of the G1 Moir S. in the spring over this unique course, the Gary Portelli trainee won first-up at Warwick Farm on Feb. 10 and while 10th in the G1 Oakleigh Plate four weeks ago, she was beaten just 2 1/2 lengths.
Looking to bounce back off a lengthy layoff is 'TDN Rising Star' Pariah (Aus) (Redoute's Choice {Aus}), who is two-for-two first up. He won the G2 San Domenico S. in August before finishing second in the G2 Run to the Rose and a disappointing ninth in the G1 Golden Rose S.
Those two 3-year-olds, in addition to last year's G1 Blue Diamond S. winner Catchy (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), enjoy a weight break from their elder rivals, which include Secret Agenda (Aus) (Not A Single Doubt {Aus}). The 5-year-old mare won the Listed Bob Hoystead H. first-up on Mar. 3 and has a good record over this distance and over the expected good going.
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