Country trainer Peter Morgan has unearthed a filly he hopes is Oaks-class with Oasis Bloom taking a quantum leap from a bush maiden to score at Flemington at only her second start.
The three-year-old daughter of Al Maher stands a massive 17.1 hands and was impressive when running home strongly from midfield to land Thursday’s Crown Promenade Trophy (1700m) after being beaten in an Echuca maiden over 1400 metres at her debut on October 11.
Oasis Blom winning the Crown Promenade Trophy at Flemington - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia
Oasis Bloom ($8.50) was gallant as she held off a late challenge from Princess Rock ($11) to score by a nose with Cliques ($3.80 fav) another 1-3/4 lengths away third.
“We’ve always had a lot of time for her,” Morgan said.
“It was a big job to win today and I think she is probably a nice South Australian Oaks sort of horse.”
Morgan said the occasion of Oaks day at Flemington got to the filly and she proved difficult to saddle up before the race.
“It was only her second time to the races and with a crowd like this you probably can’t blame her for getting stirred up,” Morgan said.
“I wasn’t sure whether she could win today or not as it was a big occasion for her and she did get a bit upset, but I think she will get better.”
Morgan said Oasis Bloom would now have a three-week break and come back to be prepared for next year’s SA Oaks.
“It is a while away but you’ve got to plan ahead,” Morgan said.
AAP TURF
