THE favourite, Stacelita, recorded a decisive victory in the Beverly D Stakes over 1900m at Arlington Park in Chicago on Saturday. South Africa’s River Jetez was a fast-finishing third, just over a length behind the winner.

The front-running Dubawi Heights held on for second in the $750 000 Group1 1 event for fillies and mares.

Mike de Kock-trained River Jetez, the second favourite, raced in mid-division and was never able to get anywhere near on terms with the winner, making up ground only once Stacelita had put the race to bed.

“I wish we’d had a better position but she ran well,” said the mare’s Belgian jockey Christophe Soumillon. “I was very proud of her.”

“River Jetez ran her heart out, she gave her best and we’re all very proud of her,” said De Kock. “She had every chance in the race and was beaten by two very good fillies. South Africa got good exposure and we’re honoured to have been a part of this event.”

Sent off 9-5 favourite, Stacelita was making her debut for her new Stateside trainer Chad Brown, who recently landed his first Grade 1 success with Zagora in the Diana Stakes at Saratoga.

Both fillies used to be trained in France before making the switch to the Stakes for owner Martin Schwartz, who loves the Beverly D.

“This is my third winner in the race,” he said. “Gorella won in 2006 and Angara won in 2005.

Photo: Stacelita wins, River Jetez (yellow cap), in third.