Justine Erkelens holds big ambitions for Own The Queen, she’s hoping to plot a path towards next month’s WA Oaks with her promising filly.
That picture becomes clearer on Saturday when Own The Queen goes up against 11 opponents in the Listed Ascot 1000 Guineas (1800m).
Own The Queen is second-up in the Ascot 1000 Guineas after she recorded a strong 1400m victory when resuming, her second win from three starts.
The daughter of Awesome Rock has taken big strides forward after finishing eighth on debut last December when she raced greenly throughout.
Online bookmakers have her the $3.80 favourite in the Ascot 1000 Guineas.
Erkelens said Own The Queen had pleased the stable since her Ascot win.
“She ran really good,” Erkelens told The Races WA.
“She’s still doing a few little things wrong, but pulled up a treat.
“I don’t see any problem running her on Saturday.
“She’s a nice filly and been a nice type from early on.
“Fingers crossed we can get down the road we are after.”
Own The Queen was bought for $57,000 at the Magic Millions Perth sale.
In a field of 12 runners in the Ascot 1000 Guineas, she jumps from barrier 10.
“She hasn’t drawn the best of barrier,” Erkelens said.
“But being 1800m should be alright.”
Erkelens said it was satisfying to be in the hunt for black-type success again.
Action Pak and Friar Fox have given the Muchea trainer one Group 3 and four Listed wins.
Erkelens believes Own The Queen is poised to take the next step in the Ascot 1000 Guineas.
“She’s pretty much running on raw ability at the moment,” Erkelens said.
“Once she starts putting it all together she’ll be a nice staying horse.
“She’s ticking all the right boxes.”
Endorsing Erkelens opinion is jockey Troy Turner, a multiple winner of the Ascot 1000 Guineas.
He’s more than happy to have his third ride on Own The Queen.
“Troy worked her on Tuesday at Belmont on the grass and was really happy,” Erkelens said.
“She’s travelling really well and he likes her.”
