THE step out to the mile proved decisive as the Tim Donnelly-trained Dolphina broke her maiden status at Albury on Friday.
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Dolphina ($31) caused an upset at big odds when she held off the Ben and JD Hayes-trained favourite Autissiodorum ($2.40) to win the Leigh Martin Marine Maiden Plate (1600m).
At just her fifth race start, Dolphina relished the step up to the mile for the first time as the four-year-old mare swept to the front approaching the 100m mark and held off a late charge from Autissiodorum.
Dolphina fought on to score by a head, with Sleigh's Belle ($3.70), who gave a big sight out in front, holding on for third three and a quarter lengths back.
It was another win for prominent owners Sandy Tait and Jill Nivison and Donnelly was not surprised by the performance.
"Her first up run was good. She ran sixth to Mathrin and Whenitrainsitpours, coming from the back, and they've both come out and won since so that's strong form for a mile maiden here," Donnelly told Sky Racing after the race.
"I thought she'd do something. She's a real trier, she mightn't be any champion but she's a trier. Her half brother is Sir Lopez, who is a very good jumper so she was always going to stay."
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Dolphina was ridden to victory by Jordan Mallyon, who echoed Donnelly's thoughts.
"It wasn't much of a race today but she got the maiden out of the way and she's probably going to get a lot further too," Mallyon said.
Meantime, experienced jockey Mathew Cahill enjoyed a day out at Albury.
Cahill recorded a winning treble with success aboard Tap 'N' Run ($6.50), Saint Henry ($5.50) and Boss Lady Rocks ($2.25).
Two of those, Tap 'N' Run and Boss Lady Rocks were for Ron Stubbs, who enjoyed a winning double on his home track.
Leading Southern District trainer Mitch Beer also had a big day with a winning treble, courtesy of Hardware Lane ($1.80), Seventh Seal ($3.60) and Branders Rule ($5.50).
Hardware Lane produced the win of the day, racing away by six lengths to take out the Southern Asset Services Maiden Handicap (1175m).
Simon Miller scored on both Hardware Lane and Branders Rule.
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