Saturday’s Lightning Stakes (1000m) winner Coolangatta could feature in the inaugural edition of The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot in April, according to owner John O’Neill.
Coolangatta upstaged champion sprinter Nature Strip in Saturday’s Group 1 feature at Flemington, her second success at the highest level over 1000m.
The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained filly was earmarked for a potential trip to Royal Ascot for a race like the Kings Stand Stakes (1000m).
O’Neill said there was a strong possibility the three-year-old could head to Perth before going overseas.
“We had some conversations yesterday,” O’Neill told TABradio.
“Obviously, the prizemoney is a huge lure to go over to Perth.
“The challenge will be getting a flight out of Perth to the UK, but things can be done so we are going to have a look at it.”
The formidable Maher and Eustace combination have already got Bella Nipotina locked in for Ladbrokes’ slot for the $4 million event.
The mare ran an eye-catching third in the Lightning Stakes in her first start since November’s Champions Sprint (1200m).
Meanwhile, Overpass is another possible Quokka starter, according to Darby Racing Director Scott Darby.
Overpass, a Group 2 winner, finished sixth to Giga Kick in last year’s Everest.
Darby said Overpass would start first-up in the Group 1 T.J. Smith Stakes (1200m) on April 1 and a decision would be made on a Perth trip following that.
“We certainly haven’t dismissed it,” he said.
“At this stage we are just looking at the T.J. Smith.
“There’s been interest from WA for him to come over.
“In a syndication situation you probably need feedback from owners because there’s obviously a lot of riches in Queensland.”
Amelia’s Jewel heads the unibet Quokka market at $4, ahead of Bella Nipotina ($5) and Kissonallforcheeks ($7).
Coolangatta is rated a $9 chance.
