Atlantic the Jewel in Coolmore crown

Atlantic Jewel made a stunning return to the races after a 24 week spell for a breathtaking victory in the G2 Sapphire Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday.

Starting for the first time since demolishing Mosheen in the G2 Wakeful Stakes at Flemington in October, the Coolmore Stud owned filly extended her unbeaten run to six with an arrogant win.

Atlantic Jewel (3f Fastnet Rock – Regard by Zabeel) was allowed to settle off the speed during the early stages before jockey Michael Rodd asked an effort in the straight.  The response was immediate and in a matter of strides she reeled in the leaders to race away for a near four length victory.

Despite being eased up, she created a new race record of 1.08.96s for 1200m.  “She is just a special horse,” trainer Mark Kavanagh said. “It’s remarkable what she did out there.  We will give her one more run and then put her away until the spring.”

Bookmakers have already installed the filly as a $5.50 pre-post favourite for the W S Cox Plate in October.

“Kav has done a wonderful job with her,” Rodd said.  “Her injury may not have been career threatening, but he cuddled her and cuddled her because the spring carnival is her main goal.”

Atlantic Jewel is by red hot Coolmore stallion Fastnet Rock and was presented by Vinery Stud at the 2010 Gold Coast Magic Millions where Coolmore agent Demi O’Byrne bought her for $320,000.  She has already earned over $680,000 for a partnership that includes Susan Magnier, Michael Kirwan, Mathilde Texier, Laurie Macri and M V Magnier.