Queman picks up on best form in Behemoth Stakes
After more than 16 months away from the track, Group 1 Oakleigh Plate hero Queman returned in style, claiming the Group 3 Behemoth Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville.
His last start came in April 2024 when unplaced in the Group 3 RN Irwin Stakes (1100m), but the Oxlade-trained sprinter showed his toughness by outfinishing Recommendation ($7) from the Ciaron Maher yard.
“I am pretty proud of the horse,” said co-trainer Shane Oxlade, who described the win as a career highlight for his daughter Cassie.
“At 1200 metres I was worried because he likes to get up and get going. He had four 1000-metre jump outs and trials but I thought he might get up and really truck along. I said to Connor (Murtagh) not to chase him up out the gates and just leave him alone. He looked vulnerable but gee he is a tough bugger.”
Queman ($8.50) had already claimed the Listed W.J Adams Stakes (1000m) earlier this year before stepping up to secure Oakleigh Plate glory.
He now boasts a career record of 10 victories and seven placings from 24 starts.
Favourite Is It Me ($2.30) loomed in the run home but could manage only fourth, with trainer Daniel Bowman plotting a spring tilt at the Group 1 Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m).
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