Trainer David Vandyke is known for his level-headed approach and rarely makes bold proclamations, but when it comes to the talented filly Philia, his esteem is evident.
Philia has been near-flawless this prep, racking up four wins from six starts — all coming in succession since her return from a break in February. Her winning spree has taken her from a maiden triumph to a dominant victory in a Three-Year-Old Handicap, a Listed success in the Princess Stakes, and most recently, a Group 2 title in The Roses. Impressively, she’s also stepped up in trip from 1350m to 2000m along the way.
That progression sets the stage for her toughest challenge yet — the Group 1 Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm this Saturday.
Vandyke has been here before, having trained Gypsy Goddess to win the Queensland Oaks in 2022. That star filly had eight months of racing under her belt before tackling the Oaks, the same timeframe that applies to Philia. However, Gypsy Goddess had a busier schedule and was tested at the top level before claiming her G1 glory.
Gypsy Goddess was unbeaten through her first five starts, up to Group 3 company with a win in the Grand Prix Stakes, before finishing third in the Vinery Stud Stakes and second in the ATC Oaks. She tuned up with a runner-up effort in the Gold Coast Bracelet before landing her crowning win in the Queensland Oaks.
In contrast, Philia is heading into the Oaks for just her seventh career start. She’s taken a different path, steadily climbing the grades without a G1 start to her name. Still, her commanding display in the The Roses proved she’s worthy of taking on the best.
Vandyke’s rare but clear praise — “I think you will see the best of her on Saturday,” — says everything. It’s a glowing nod from a trainer who doesn’t speak in superlatives.
Philia has the form, the bloodlines (she’s a half-sister to Queensland Oaks 2021 winner Duais), and the precision-prepared campaign behind her. With Kerrin McEvoy staying aboard after her win in The Roses, everything appears in place for another Group 1 tilt.
If she delivers, it will mark Vandyke’s second Queensland Oaks win — a feat he would surely treasure as much as the first with Gypsy Goddess.
And should she prevail, expect Eagle Farm to erupt again, just as it did when Antino surged to victory in the Doomben Cup.
For those looking to get behind Philia or any of the other runners in the Queensland Oaks, compare the best odds and promotions at top betting sites across Australia.
