Lady Bethany, who raced in New Zealand as Bethany, showed her potential when racing away to a comfortable 10 length victory over 1400m at Murray Bridge on Wednesday.

The daughter of Niagara had eight starts in New Zealand for five placings and was sent across the Tasman to Michael Hickmott earlier this year to tackle some Australian spoils.

“She is owned by Trish Dunell, who along with her husband Graham Mackie are very good friends of mine in New Zealand,” Hickmott said.

He was a bit apprehensive heading into Wednesday’s contest after his stable was ravaged by a virus.

“They sent her across and I thought I would qualify her for the provincial super series, either the 1800m or 1400m final,” Hickmott said.

“She ran here first-up the other day and I was gutted. I know the track didn’t play well but she went horrendous (finishing fifth).

“Subsequent to that I had a pretty bad virus go through the stable and came here today a little bit gun shy, knowing how good she works and what she shows at home, but she probably should be beating horses like that on her good Kiwi form.”

Lady Bethany will now head for a spell after performing well over a lengthy campaign.

“Trish just called me before, she said I have got no choice, she will be going to the paddock,” he said.

“She wants her to have a little break now, she had a big time of it in New Zealand and came across here and she has fought off a few bugs.”

-NZ Racing Desk