Tajana Edges Out Lollapalooza in Thrilling Sunline Vase Finish

The Group 3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sunline Vase at Ellerslie on March 2, 2024, culminated in a dramatic finish, with the three-year-old filly Tajana narrowly defeating race favourite Lollapalooza. This victory positions both fillies as joint favourites for the upcoming 1000 Guineas, following a race that had been widely anticipated as a showdown between the two talented competitors.

Pre-race analysts had focused on Tajana and Lollapalooza, highlighting their impressive performances throughout the spring racing season. The competition was expected to be fierce, yet many underestimated the capabilities of other well-credentialed contenders. Despite this, the race unfolded as predicted, with Tajana, trained by Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray, managing to secure victory by a mere nose.

Both fillies are known for their strong finishing capabilities, typically running at the back of the pack before making their moves. This strategy was evident early in the race as Vinnie Colgan aboard Lollapalooza and George Rooke on Tajana settled into second- and third-last positions, respectively, entering the final stretch.

As the competitors approached the home bend, Rooke opted to steer Tajana towards the outer, while Colgan navigated Lollapalooza through the pack. The pair surged forward, chasing down Little Black Dress, who had taken the lead with 200 meters remaining.

In a nail-biting finish, both Tajana and Lollapalooza caught up to Little Black Dress, with Tajana managing to thrust her head forward at just the right moment. The photo finish confirmed her victory, marking her second consecutive stakes win after clinching the Group 3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) just a month prior.

This win solidifies Tajana’s reputation in the racing circuit and sets her up for a highly anticipated campaign in the 1000 Guineas. As the racing community reflects on the thrilling contest at Ellerslie, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on both fillies as they continue to vie for supremacy in the coming weeks.