Racing: Fleet footed Katie flies home

James McDonald on Katie Lee earlier in the year. Photo / APN

Katie lee defied logic at Hastings yesterday coming from the rear of the field to win the $70,000 (Group Three) Open Handicap.

Nothing was winning from the back of the field at Hastings until last season's champion 3-year-old filly lined up in the 1400m event.

Patiently handled by James McDonald, who rode a half kilogram over the carded weight, Katie Lee unleashed a staggering turn of speed over the closing 200m to win by a neck over Alagant Satin. A further nose away third was Occidentalis.

McDonald replaced regular rider Opie Bosson who could not get down to 53.5kg to ride the outstanding athlete.

Punters must have being tearing up their betting slips on the favourite who was tailed off during the early stages of the race when the pace was hectic.

However, when McDonald pulled her out to the middle of the track and allowed her time to balance then chase the leaders -the response - was mouth-watering.

"I was in all sorts of trouble early on getting back in the field but she picked herself up and just flew that last 200 metres and she has an unbelievable turn of foot - the best of any horse I have ridden," said McDonald.