Owner-breeder John Singleton’s affinity with the Denise’s Joy dynasty is set to continue with State Of Play out to uphold the family name at Caulfield.
The Gerald Ryan-trained filly runs in the Group Three Ethereal Stakes at Caulfield with a start in the 2017 VRC Oaks on the line, 40 years after her great, great grandmother won the Classic.
A daughter of Joy Toy, State Of Play earned the trip from Sydney to Melbourne with her maiden win over 2000 metres at Hawkesbury at her fifth start.
“She is by Fastnet Rock but she throws to the female side of the family,” Ryan said.
“She gives every impression she will be a stayer. She travelled down there well and the 2000 metres suits.
“Whether she’s good enough in this company yet we don’t know.”
State Of Play’s grandmother Sunday Joy was an ATC Oaks winner while her great grandmother Joie Denise won a Queensland Oaks.
Perhaps the one closest to her owner’s heart, Joy Toy’s half-sister More Joyous, was more effective at middle distances winning eight Group One races, four over 1600 metres.
The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained Pinot is the $4 Ethereal Stakes favourite with State Of Play at $23 and to be ridden by Craig Williams.
State Of Play is a $51 chance in the Group One Oaks (2500m) on November 9 with Thousand Guineas winner Aloisia the $3.50 favourite.
