Aussie Filly Alinghi might be U.S. Bound

Australia's glamour filly Alinghi could race in the U.S. in 2005. Her crew are considering the trans-Pacific option in the wake of her grand win in the Vinery-sponsored $500,000 (Australian funds) One Thousand Guineas (Aust-I) at Caulfield Oct. 13.

The best to date by Fairy King horse Encosta de Lago dominated the 3-year-old fillies, coming from last of 11 at the 400 meters to win the 1,600 meters classic by a widening 1 3/4 lengths. In combining for his third Guineas success with handler Lee Freedman, Damien Oliver eased her in the final 50 meters to score from Hollow Bullet and Stravinsky daughter Ballet Society.

The slow 1:37.14 was due to the rain-affected track.

Named for Switzerland's America's Cup holder, the Piney Ridge-bred filly has won eight of 11 starts and almost $2.4 million for her group of 12 owners. The previous group I success for the $80,000 yearling was in the Blue Diamond at two.

The 101st group I winner for Freedman is likely to be confined to sprint races next fall with the U.S. option possible in the second half of the year. Freedman said Bobbie Frankel had already been sounded out to train Alinghi, given his success with imports.