Queman has made a triumphant return to racing, ending a 70-week absence with a determined victory at black-type level in Morphettville’s Group 3 Behemoth Stakes (1200m).

The 2024 Group 1 Oakleigh Plate winner had last competed in April of last year, finishing unplaced in the Group 3 RN Irwin Stakes (1100m). This time, he showed his trademark fight, reeling in the Ciaron Maher-trained Recommendation ($7) to prevail.

“I am pretty proud of the horse,” co-trainer Shane Oxlade said of the performance that also delivered his daughter Cassie a significant moment in her career.

“At 1200 metres I was worried because he likes to get up and get going. He had four 1000-metre jump outs and trials but I thought he might get up and really truck along. I said to Connor (Murtagh) not to chase him up out the gates and just leave him alone. He looked vulnerable but gee he is a tough bugger.”

Queman ($8.50) had earlier claimed the Listed W.J Adams Stakes (1000m) at Caulfield before extending in trip to land the Oakleigh Plate.

His consistent record now reads 10 wins and seven placings from 24 career starts.

Race favourite Is It Me ($2.30) threatened in the straight before tiring to fourth, with trainer Daniel Bowman eyeing the Group 1 Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m) next.