The WA Oaks meeting at Ascot delivered an action-packed day for racing fans, with thrilling finishes, milestone moments, and standout performers across the board. From rising equine stars to seasoned veterans stamping their class, the weekend set the stage for even bigger things to come in the WA Derby.
WIN OF THE DAY
Make way for a new force in Perth racing.
Machine Gun Gracie left no doubts about her talent with a commanding victory in the WA Oaks. After a similarly dominant showing in the Natasha Stakes (2200m), she controlled the race tempo early, let Funchal take over mid-race, then surged back in front after turning for home to put the result beyond doubt—winning by a comfortable 3¼ lengths. Unbeaten against fillies this season, she now eyes the boys in the WA Derby (2400m), where only misfortune stands in her way.
JOCKEY
The bond between Shaun O’Donnell and Machine Gun Gracie continues to flourish.
It was a day to remember for Luke Campbell as well. The young hoop marked the end of his apprenticeship with a front-running win on Nobelity, rewarding punters who supported the speedy mare.
William Pike was in vintage form, guiding Snitzalatte to another win, claiming the Old Comrade Stakes with Watch Me Rock, and getting West Star home in his first run back.
TRAINER
Back-to-back WA Oaks glory belongs to Justine Erkelens, who followed up last year’s win with Own The Queen by scoring again—this time with the impressive Machine Gun Gracie.
Adam Durrant’s promising filly Snitzalatte has made a perfect start to her racing career. Two from two and heading to the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) brimming with confidence.
It was nearly a stable quinella for Grant and Alana Williams in the Old Comrade Stakes, with Watch Me Rock narrowly edging out Fluro Neuro in a close finish.
Sail Session delivered for favourite punters in the Listed Melvista Stakes (2200m), making it three in a row. Despite needing encouragement from Lucy Fiore, he kept finding to beat Maxwhooshtapin and secure trainer Dan Morton’s third win in the race in four years.
Trainer Renee Forrest celebrated her first Saturday metro success with the tough-as-nails Nobelity. She continues to make waves since stepping back from riding.
HORSES TO FOLLOW
West Star returned in style and looks poised for a big campaign. Simon Miller believes he’s the real deal—and with the Quokka just weeks away, slot holders should take notice.
Statewide turned in a strong performance for Neville Parnham and is one to keep on the radar after flashing home late behind Snitzalatte.
Maxwhooshtapin ran home well behind Sail Session and trainer Misty Bazeley will aim him at the WA Derby, believing he’s a stayer in the making.
BEATEN FAVOURITES
Notable flops on the day included Our Rocky Bay, Objectify, and Stylish Lord.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Following the race, Play Fair was examined by vets and found to be lame in the off foreleg.
