Ascot Recap: A new queen, a star returns, gun apprentice lands final blow
Ascot played host to an unforgettable day of racing over the weekend as the WA Oaks meeting brought together top-tier talent, rising stars, and key storylines ahead of the WA Derby. From dominant wins to breakthrough performances, the afternoon had something for everyone.
WIN OF THE DAY
A new era begins in WA racing, and her name is Machine Gun Gracie.
The Maschino filly dominated the WA Oaks in similar fashion to her Natasha Stakes (2200m) win two weeks earlier. After leading early, she handed up to Funchal mid-race, reclaimed the front at the top of the straight, and burst away to win by 3¼ lengths. She’s now the clear favourite for the WA Derby (2400m), and only misfortune is likely to deny her again.
JOCKEY
Shaun O’Donnell delivered another flawless ride aboard Machine Gun Gracie, showing why their partnership continues to thrive.
Luke Campbell enjoyed a special moment with Nobelity, riding his final winner as an apprentice and impressing punters with a smart front-running ride.
William Pike added to his growing haul, teaming up with Snitzalatte for another victory, winning the Old Comrade Stakes on Watch Me Rock, and landing a sharp return with West Star.
TRAINER
Justine Erkelens proved lightning can strike twice, going back-to-back in the WA Oaks after last year’s triumph with Own The Queen. Her latest winner, Machine Gun Gracie, looks every bit a future star.
Adam Durrant’s Snitzalatte is two-from-two and on track for a big run in the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) following another polished win.
The Old Comrade Stakes saw Grant and Alana Williams score with Watch Me Rock, who narrowly held off stablemate Fluro Neuro in a tight finish.
Sail Session made it three on the trot in the Listed Melvista Stakes (2200m), giving Dan Morton another feature win after strong rides in recent years. Despite a late challenge, the gelding held firm under Lucy Fiore.
Former jockey Renee Forrest added another chapter to her growing training career, landing her first Saturday winner thanks to the evergreen Nobelity.
HORSES TO FOLLOW
West Star returned with a bang and could be Quokka-bound if he continues on this trajectory. Trainer Simon Miller has high hopes—and so should potential slot holders.
Statewide made late ground for Neville Parnham and looks like a horse with upside after finishing third behind Snitzalatte.
Maxwhooshtapin’s late run behind Sail Session has his trainer Misty Bazeley convinced he’ll thrive over further in the WA Derby.
BEATEN FAVOURITES
Top selections who failed to fire included Our Rocky Bay, Objectify, and Stylish Lord.
WHAT HAPPENED?
A post-race check confirmed Play Fair pulled up lame in the off foreleg.
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