In a turnaround, Don't Tell Lou Lou seized victory in the Ham Stables Limited event for native-bred three-year-olds, covering a distance of 6 ½ furlongs, on Saturday, February 24, 2024.
The maiden special weight race marked a significant milestone for the filly, who had previously exhibited modest potential in her first outing.
On her racing debut on December 2, 2023, Don't Tell Lou Lou's performance was underwhelming, finishing a distant sixth, some 12 ¾ lengths behind the front runner Grecian Light, in a 5 ½ furlong sprint.
However, under the new guidance of trainer Alford Brown, the filly emerged from a three-month hiatus with a newfound vigour, showcasing a stark contrast to her initial race.
Jockey Omar Walker piloted Don't Tell Lou Lou with a strategic finesse that saw her establish and maintain a comfortable lead, clocking in at 25.3 x 50.3 x 1:17.4.
The filly's improved speed was a testament to Brown's training regimen, ultimately giving her the edge needed to triumph over the closely contending King Piye, ridden by Robert Halledeen, by a narrow margin.
The race unfolded with Hickory Slim, under Dane Dawkins, maintaining a consistent presence but ultimately conceding to third place, trailing by 5 ½ lengths from the winner.
Reflecting on the victory, Brown expressed satisfaction, particularly for the owner Norris Phinn, in light of the filly's previous 90-day suspension due to a misunderstanding.
The successful collaboration between owner and trainer was pivotal in Don't Tell Lou Lou's rehabilitation and subsequent win.
Brown's strategic choices, including the introduction of Lasix and blinkers, were influential in the filly's performance. With cautious optimism, he plans to continue monitoring her progress, taking each day as it comes, and nurturing her racing career with the hope of further success.
