Oaks heroine Treasurethe Moment returned in brilliant fashion at Caulfield, stepping up to open-age Group 1 company and dominating the Memsie Stakes (1400m).
Still only three until November, the filly produced a dazzling burst under Damian Lane to win by 2-½ lengths at $6, with Mr Brightside ($7) finishing second and Buckaroo ($61) running on for third.
Trainer Matt Laurie admitted the manner of victory caught him off guard. “It was one of the best Memsie fields we’ve seen in some time. I wasn’t expecting to be coming here and winning… to win in such fashion, is pretty incredible,” he said. “I have never seen a horse travel that well around the bend and quicken up like she did.”
Her campaign now includes the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes and Group 1 Turnbull Stakes, with connections then deciding whether she tackles the Caulfield Cup or the Cox Plate. Laurie noted a Valley clash with Via Sistina could loom large.
Jockey Damian Lane was glowing in his assessment. “Trackwork, jump-outs, they’re a different kind of pressure, and she was jumping up to the big boys and girls now… luckily enough I was able to take the run and she was electrifying.”