In a strategic masterstroke, the decision to book Declan Bates proved pivotal as Grinzinger Belle powered to an impressive victory in the Sunline Stakes at Moonee Valley, evoking memories of Bates’ signature front-running rides aboard Pride Of Jenni.

With regular jockey Damian Lane in Sydney, where he secured a win in the Golden Slipper, owner John Wheeler suggested trainer Danny O’Brien turn to Bates to execute an aggressive, front-running strategy. The plan worked perfectly, with the $4 betting apps favorite dictating the tempo and surging to a dominant 2¾-length victory over Wrote To Arataki ($6), while Another Prophet ($6) finished third.

“John was instrumental in securing Declan Bates for the ride, and it turned out to be an inspired choice,” O’Brien said after the Group 2 1600m feature for fillies and mares.

“He rode her superbly. When the conditions suit, she gets rolling, and once she does that, she’s incredibly tough to catch, let alone pass.”

Looking ahead, O’Brien has his sights set on the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m) at Randwick on April 12 during The Championships, with hopes that Sydney’s usual autumn rains will enhance Grinzinger Belle’s chances.

She is currently rated a $26 chance for the Queen Of The Turf, where she could face high-profile rivals such as Fangirl, Atishu, and Amelia’s Jewel.

“A big thanks to Damian Lane, who took the time to chat with me this morning,” Bates said.

“He knows her inside out and shared plenty of valuable insights.

“One of the key aspects was getting her out of the gates cleanly, and he passed on some great tips that made a big difference.”