GOSFORD DEBUTANTE “HAMMERS” HER RIVALS

WHEN you’re stuck naming a horse, go back to basics!

That’s what Gosford trainer Greg McFarlane did with an Adelaide purchase he had made – and topped it off when the now three-year-old made a winning debut at Newcastle yesterday.

McFarlane paid $50,000 to buy the daughter of Alabama Express as a yearling at the 2024 Magic Millions sale.

“We put in quite a few names for the filly, but they were all knocked back,” McFarlane said today.

“As I own 30 per cent, I decided to submit Alabama Hammer as the Yellowhammer State is a popular nickname for the US state of Alabama (it was earned during the Civil War when a company of Confederate soldiers from Alabama wore uniforms trimmed with bright yellow cloth).

“The name was approved, but the syndicate which races the filly was around 50-50 about its popularity.

“I’m sure everyone is happy now.

“It’s marvellous how winning can improve a horse’s name.”

Ridden by Hawkesbury apprentice Leeshelle Small, Alabama Hammer ($6.50) was too nippy for her rivals in the Maiden Handicap (900m).

After beginning well and sharing the lead with Final Gift, the filly took over before the home turn and would not be denied in the straight, holding out another debutante, Cape Cod ($2 favorite), the beautifully I Am Invincible daughter of thrice Group 1 winner Shoals.

McFarlane’s decision to book New Zealand expat Small, who recently transferred from

Rod Northam at Scone to Brad Widdup at Hawkesbury, clearly was a winning move.

Her 3kg provincial allowance lessened Alabama Hammer’s weight to 54kg; 3kg less than runner-up Cape Cod.

“Leeshelle has had a few rides for me, and she is an up and coming young rider,” McFarlane said.

“I’m quite impressed with her.”

McFarlane didn’t hesitate to buy Alabama Express in Adelaide, liking both the filly and her sire.

“I don’t mind at all buying yearlings in Adelaide,” he said.

“Some of my good winners have been purchased there.”

McFarlane did not push Alabama Hammer, pointing out her body was ready, but not her mind.

“She was a little bit hyper-active, and I didn’t worry about racing her as a two-year-old,” he said.

“It probably cost us six months, but in the end it has turned out to be a blessing.

“She is pretty quick, and I’m sure we can win some more races with her.”

STORY JOHN CURTIS, JUNE 14, 2026 - PICS BRADLEY PHOTOS