The Marc Connors-trained Rebel Rama has stamped herself as a Queensland Oaks contender.
It took a long-term plan, with a few setbacks, but the Marc Connors-trained filly Marc Conners ($21) has stamped herself as a genuine G1 Queensland Oaks contender with a powerful finish at Rosehill.
The Dissident three-year-old produced a withering burst to overrun race favourite Maranoa ($2.60F) by half a length with Quiet Michael ($26) a further 1-1/4 lengths away in third in the 2000m Handicap.
Rebel Rama was originally being set for the Australasian Oaks in Adelaide, but she didn’t make the field causing Connors to switch tack.
“We actually tried to get to Adelaide to try and get into the Australasian Oaks,” Connors said.
“We didn’t get a run so we come home. That’s why her runs have been spaced a fair bit this prep.
“She’s going to Queensland now and will run in the Oaks in two week’s time. That’s the plan.”
Connors was full of praise for the ride of jockey Mikayla Weir, who was having her first steer on the filly.
“She just rode her a treat,” Connors said.
“It makes a big difference when you can draw a barrier and we had no weight on our back today.
“Luckily the breaks went her way and she was able to get out and get on her bike when she needed to.”
Rarely seen in town on a Saturday, Weir would love the chance to follow Rebel Rama up north and was grateful for the metropolitan ride.
“I didn’t think I’d be down here riding winners out of my apprenticeship, but here I am,” Weir said.
“I don’t know whether they’ll want me to (ride in the Queensland Oaks), but if I get the opportunity I definitely will.”
Rebel Rama has firmed into $21 with the TAB for the Queensland Oaks which will be run on June 5.
