DOMINANT STAKES WIN FOR PHILIA

PHILIA showcased her QLD Oaks credentials and enhanced her value after the well-bred filly scored a dominant win in the Listed Princess Stakes (1600m) at Eagle Farm.

The half-sister to Group 1 winner DUAIS scored her first Black Type victory in style, racing on the speed before producing a sustained sprint for jockey Kerrin McEvoy to score by two lengths in what marked her third straight victory.

Trainer David Vandyke paid tribute to the filly’s effort given she was five weeks between runs and suggested she may now head straight to the Group 2 The Roses over 2000m for her next assignment en route to the Group 1 Qld Oaks (2400m).

“That was pretty amazing,” said David.

“Her three-quarter sister, Baccarat Baby, won this race but she didn't win it that well.

“I said to Kerrin before the race, don't be afraid to let her go a bit early. She's got a big, long, sustained sprint, she's tough and you don't have to hold her up.

“I'll tell you what, I was confident at the 600m mark. She was just traveling, she just jumped out and put herself there.”

David credited the win to her track rider Quinton Cassidy, who sustained an injury at trackwork during the week.

“Quinton had a bad fall earlier in the week after he galloped her. She hasn't had anyone else on her back since. I've kept her on the treadmill and this win goes out to him in his recovery because he's done a fantastic job with her. “

Experienced hoop McEvoy knows a good horse when he rides one and suggested PHILIA gave the indication the 2400m of the Queensland Oaks should suit.

“She's on the right upward curve, it’s easy to say David might just have a handy one there,” said McEvoy.

“She's got a good engine and she can maintain a gallop, and that's what she showed there.

“Obviously the boxes need to be ticked when she goes out on a trip, but she gives the indication that she should enjoy it, so we're going to find out if she's good enough.”

Congratulations to owners Irwin Racing and Harris Family Racing.