THERE was really no pressure on Nother Russia to win her comeback run at Turffontein on Thursday night but she did it stylishly anyway, conquering rivals in a Pinnacle Plate over 1400m, short of her best.

“She just won in my hands,” enthused jockey Craig Zackey in praise of Nother Russia’s easy success. It was her first run under lights and she handled it well. I love her, she is the reason I get up in the morning!”

Nother Russia, no stress.

Mathew de Kock confirmed that Nother Russia was short of a run, though she looked exceptionally well going down. Just months ago she was a MR80 handicapper, now she’s in the big league having grown in confidence and strength.

Equine behaviour therapist Malan du Toit, who’d worked extensively with Nother Russia as a younger filly, said:  “We did a quick ‘refresher’ with her this week, considering it was her first run at night. I recall when she wouldn’t stand still and wouldn’t go into the pens.  She was full of nonsense earlier on. Look at her today, she’s a star and I am very proud to be involved with her.”

Owner Jessica Slack was on course and conveyed her thanks to everyone in the stable, also at Mauritzfontein Stud where Nother Russia took a ‘holiday’ after her successful feature campaign ended in May.

The daughter of Tiger Ridge and Mother Russia has won 6 of 11 and is likely to be aimed at the Ipi Tombe Stakes on Summer Cup Day.