BEL SHOES SHOWS CLEAN HEELS AT VALLEY

Boots are made for walkin’, but Bel Esprit’s ‘Shoes’ was definitely made for sprintin’ … as she showed with some alacrity at Moonee Valley yesterday.

The Steve Richards’ trained 3YO, Bel Shoes, raced away with the John F Feehan Handicap (1200m) to score her third victory – and first in town … much to the delight of owners which include footy legend, Kevin Sheedy.

According to Bel Esprit’s Owners’ Club chronicler, Brian Donohoe, Bel Shoes motored away after sitting just off the pace.

“She appeared to be boxed in before forcing an opening in the straight and winning by two and a half lengths with a bit in reserve.”

Trainer Steve said after the race “she is a good, honest little filly who has got stronger this time around and could string a couple together in these type of races.”

Bel Shoes has now won $74,722, which is not a bad return on the $20,000 Steve paid for her out of the Eliza Park draft at the 2007 Inglis Melbourne Autumn Yearling Sale.

Bred by Bronwyn Hawking and Wayne Ross, Bel Shoes is the first foal of Encosta de Lago mare, Costa Grande, who won five over short courses and hails from a prolific family.

To view Bel Shoes’ victory at Moonee Valley, please click here.

Photo courtesy of Slickpix