It’s a fascinating edition of Saturday’s Group 1 Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm.
The jigsaw puzzle of wide barriers, varying tempos, and staying depth sets the stage for a grandstand finish.
With the leading contenders drawn far apart, tactics will play a crucial role, especially in what shapes as a potentially muddling early tempo.
And for the closers?
It’ll be all about timing the move before the bend and staying strong through the line on the long Eagle Farm straight.
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The drying surface is a welcome sign for most runners.
A Soft 5 on Friday is expected to improve into the Good 4 range by race time, with fine weather forecast for race day.
The big question: how much early work will Philia ($4.20) need to do from a wide gate?
If she can cruise across, she’ll be tough to run down again.
Others near the pace include roughies Let’s Fly and Amplify, both drawn to land forward.
Midfield positions are likely for Churchill’s Choice ($12.00) and Pinito ($9.50).
Meanwhile, Benagil ($4.60), Jenni’s Meadow ($9.50), and Movin Out ($7.50) will all drift back early and be charging late.
Philia is going great guns, having won all four stars this prep.
The latest was the Group 2 Roses when sticking on hard from the front.
She must be a big chance again, but under the odds from the wide draw over an extra furlong.
Movin Out shapes as the best value play in the Oaks.
She was huge late from last in The Roses behind Philia, clocking some of the best sectionals of the day.
Now third-up, she rises to 2200m and brings in J-Mac to steer, ideal for the bigger track at Eagle Farm.
She may not settle as far back here and will get rolling early.
Ready to peak and represents outstanding value.
Benagil – Didn’t finish off in The Roses, but boasts a sharp closing burst and suits this bigger track.
Philia – Hard to knock a four-time winner this prep, but must overcome the gate and extra distance.
Churchill’s Choice – Progressive filly who continues to improve each run and maps for a soft run midfield.
Movin Out (Best Bet)
Benagil
Philia
Churchill’s Choice
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