The team at Chris Waller Racing draws optimism from elite jockey James McDonald’s assessment while Ohope Wins endeavours to shrug off a fresh defeat and capture the Australian Oaks after her New Zealand classic score.
Dispatched as the favourite for her initial Australian start in the Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m), expectations were high for Ohope Wins to prevail despite the five-week layoff and reduced trip of 400m.
Positioned well at the crest of the straight, she was unable to pass the leaders, crossing fourth in an underwhelming outcome.
Waller’s aide Charlie Duckworth foresees better fortunes for the filly in the Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m) this Saturday at Randwick.
“James (McDonald) galloped her (on Tuesday) morning and said she feels more switched on, like a better horse today than when he rode her in the race,” Duckworth said.
“I don’t know whether it’s a case of the way we train, or things change, but up to the distance I think she will justify the hype she had prior to her run in the Vinery, because they all thought she was just about unbeatable.”
The market reflects ongoing belief in Ohope Wins at $2.40 ahead of Profoundly, victor of Saturday’s Adrian Knox Stakes (2000m), priced at $3.50.
Soverato, stablemate of Ohope Wins, grabbed second in the Adrian Knox and is entered for the showpiece.
With a Canterbury win launching her prep, Soverato has delivered consistency, and McDonald, staying with Ohope Wins, has recommended targeting day two at The Championships.
“James rode her on Saturday, and he said, ‘you’ve got to back her up. She is ready to peak’,” Duckworth said.
“The distance is obviously a question mark, because she hasn’t been over it yet, but there is nothing to say she won’t handle it.”
Kerrin McEvoy steered Soverato home fourth in the Phar Lap Stakes (1500m) on her penultimate run and reunites from stall four at Randwick.
Waller holds a record of four Australian Oaks wins, the most recent by Hungry Heart in 2021.
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