The racing world is abuzz with the upcoming Queensland Oaks, a prestigious event that promises an exciting showdown between the best fillies in the sport. Among the contenders, Single Red, a talented daughter of Vanbrugh, is generating significant buzz. Trained by the renowned Andrew Forsman, Single Red has already made a name for herself with her impressive performance in the New Zealand Oaks, finishing a respectable third. But the real test lies ahead in the Queensland Oaks, a Group 1 race over 2200m at Eagle Farm on June 6.
Forsman believes that Single Red's recent trial run at Cambridge was a positive step forward. "She closed well for second in her trial yesterday behind To Cap It All and we weren’t too worried about the result, but it was still a pleasing outing and nice to see her stretch out as she did," he said. This indicates that Single Red is on the right track and ready to take on the challenge of the Queensland Oaks.
Single Red's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. She quickly advanced from maiden grade in January to finish runner-up to Ohope Wins in the Davind & Karyn Ellis Classic (2100m). Her performance in the Oaks further solidified her potential, even though she didn't quite match the winner's pace over the 2400m distance. However, her short break has done her world of good, and she has returned as a bigger, more furnished filly.
The next step in Single Red's journey will be a three-year-old set weights and penalties race over 1600m at Te Rapa on April 25. If she performs well, she'll be off to Brisbane for the Queensland Oaks. Forsman explains, "I think it gives her a better chance of being competitive at that trip. In time, a mile to 2000m is going to be her sweet spot, but there are a couple of nice lead-up races in the Gold Coast Bracelet (Listed, 1800m) and the Roses (Gr.2, 2000m)."
Single Red's success in the Queensland Oaks would be a significant achievement, not only for her but also for her connections, including breeder Ben Kwok and OTI Racing. It would further solidify her status as a top filly in the sport.
In other news, four-year-old mare Elle Sourit is also making waves. She will have her first opportunity to claim black-type when she contests Saturday’s Gr.3 Manco Easter Handicap (1600m). Despite tasting defeat for the first time in five starts, Forsman remains optimistic about her potential. He believes that Elle Sourit is a narrow, fragile type of horse, and her physical development is just beginning. Her formline is impressive, and Forsman thinks she was unlucky not to have won her last race at Te Aroha.
The racing world eagerly awaits the outcomes of these races, as they will shape the future of these talented fillies and mares. The Queensland Oaks, in particular, promises to be a thrilling event, with Single Red and her rivals battling it out for supremacy. As for Elle Sourit, her journey towards black-type status is a testament to the patience and expertise of her trainer, Andrew Forsman.
In the world of racing, these events highlight the beauty of competition and the endless possibilities for these magnificent creatures. As fans, we can only sit back and enjoy the show, cheering on our favorite fillies and mares as they strive for glory.
