Godolphin unearths VRC Oaks contender

Image: Brett Holburt

Pensato has stamped herself on the VRC Oaks after winning the trial at Flemington

Pierro’s sister Pensato confirmed she was headed to the VRC Oaks after her comfortable win in the Oaks Trial at Flemington.

Trainer James Cummings’ Melbourne foreman Sean Keogh said the daughter of Lonhro had now ticked the box to show she could stay.

“We knew she had a turn of foot and she’s impeccably bred but we just wanted to find out whether she could stay or not,” Keogh said.

Her jockey John Allen, who had her placed outside the leader, said he thought she was capable of running out the 2500 metres of the Oaks.

“She relaxes nicely and she’s clean in the wind. She has a great attitude so she should have every opportunity to run the distance out. I can’t see it being an issue,” Allen said.

Pensato’s half-sister Ambience finished second in the Australian Oaks and third in the VRC Oaks.

Swan Hill trainer Nathan Hobson and his apprentice Madison Lloyd combined for their first Flemington win when Yulong Storm claimed the Star Of The Realm Handicap.