Trainer Michael Lane holds high hopes for The Boss Lady, confident that the talented mare can make a significant impact both in the immediate future and later in the year during the Ascot carnival.
If The Boss Lady continues her impressive development, she could be a force to reckon with in upcoming races, with Lane eyeing bigger opportunities for her.
She took a step closer to that goal on Monday after a smooth trial run at Bunbury, where she finished second in a four-horse contest.
Bred by Lane himself, The Boss Lady had her first public outing since her strong showing during last year’s Ascot campaign, where she made a name for herself.
While Lane doesn’t plan to overwork her, he is eager to see how she fares against top sprinters in feature races with lucrative prize pools.
Her recent success at the 2024 Pinnacles carnival at Ascot, where she secured a hat-trick of wins, has only bolstered Lane’s confidence. A standout moment came when she captured her maiden black-type victory in the Jungle Dawn Classic (1400m).
“The Roma Cup is first, and from there, we’ll decide between The Joey or The Quokka,” Lane said.
“Both races are on the same day, so we’ll see how she performs in the Roma Cup to determine if she’s worthy of a Quokka slot.”
“It’s a huge jump in competition, but we have faith in her. Either way, our plan is to have her run in the Roma Cup before competing on Quokka Day.”
“I know she needs to prove herself at that level, but if she isn’t quite ready for the Quokka, The Joey is a solid option.”
“Either way, we won’t be disappointed to have a Joey horse.”
In her 900m Bunbury trial, The Boss Lady had an easy run.
Jockey Chris Parnham kept her under a quiet ride, allowing her to finish comfortably without full exertion.
Lane was pleased with her effort.
“I was really happy with her today,” Lane said.
“It was a nice, easy trial.”
“She’s coming along well, and I’m pleased with her progress.”
“She’s developed good muscle, her weight is right where it needs to be.”
“She had a little blowout, which was expected.”
“That’s why we’re heading to the Belmont trials next Monday for another run.”
The Group 3 Roma Cup (1100m) will take place at Ascot on April 12.
The $5 million Quokka (1200m) and $200,000 Joey (1200m) follow two weeks later.
