Ozzie Kheir is looking forward to the upcoming Group 2 The Roses (2000m) this Saturday to determine the readiness of his two fillies, Molly Bloom and Scarlet Oak, for the forthcoming Group 1 Queensland Oaks (2200m) next month.
Scarlet Oak, trained by Chris Waller and set to be piloted by James McDonald, presents an intriguing prospect.
This filly showed promise by winning her maiden start in New Zealand, then securing a second place in the Group 3 James H B Carr Stakes (1400m) in April.
Her most recent performance saw her triumph in a Benchmark 72 (1600m) at Newcastle, highlighting her progression and potential.
On the other hand, Molly Bloom, the Group 1 New Zealand 1,000 Guineas (1600m) victor, will have Blake Shinn in the saddle.
Trained by the adept duo of Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott, Molly Bloom’s robust physique and seasoned racing experience make her a formidable contender.
“Saturday’s race is the best race for both of them at this stage and it will tell us a lot about our Oaks chances,” Kheir said.
“Molly Bloom, she is seasoned and is a big, strong girl and she loves her racing, whereas Scarlet Oak, she has done it all in her first prep.
“We’ve thrown her into the deep end and there is not a great deal of her.
“She’s really just doing it on pure talent and raw ability.
“We have been thinking about whether to put her out, but she won so well last start she’s forced our hand to give her a chance.
“She’s gone from a maiden to a Group race at her next run and then beat the older horses third start pretty convincingly.”
This race will serve as a crucial assessment for both fillies, offering insights into their capabilities and helping to fine-tune their preparations for the prestigious Queensland Oaks.
The performances of Molly Bloom and Scarlet Oak will be closely scrutinized, providing valuable data to guide future strategic decisions.
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