An impressive performance in her lead-up run has Lindsay Park confident that Jenni’s Meadow is a leading contender in the Group 1 Queensland Oaks (2200m) at Eagle Farm this Saturday.
Despite their prolific record in Victoria, Lindsay Park—dating back to the era of David and Colin Hayes—has never secured a Group 1 win in Queensland. Jenni’s Meadow will head a three-pronged attack on a rescheduled Group 1 race day for Ben, Will & JD Hayes, who will also saddle Rise At Dawn in the Kingsford Smith Cup (1300m) and Chase Your Dreams in the Queensland Derby (2400m).
Ben Hayes said Jenni’s Meadow had been primed for the Oaks following a brilliant second in the Group 2 The Roses (2000m) at Doomben, where she sustained a long run and closed strongly late.
“We’re very happy with her,” Hayes said.
“It was a huge run in The Roses, and I think arguably she was probably the run of the race. She was strong to the line, made a long, sustained run, and it looked perfect for 2200 (metres).”
Having drawn poorly at her past two starts, Hayes believes barrier one on Saturday will be a significant factor and gives her every chance to turn the tables on The Roses winner, Philia.
“She’s been a bit unlucky this prep with wide barriers, and it has cost her. I think with a couple of better barriers and better runs in transit, she would have gone close,” Hayes said.
“I don’t think the barrier is all important, but a gate would definitely help, and I know Ethan (Brown) was rapt with her run in The Roses.”
“But she’s building up beautifully. This has always been the target with her to hopefully try and get her to a race like the Queensland Oaks. So we’re arriving fourth up, ready to go.”
“She’s a listed winner as a young horse, group three placed last preparation and now she’s group two placed, so we need to get that good black type win.
“She deserves to be there and has a great chance.”
Jenni’s Meadow sits on the third line of betting at $7 for the Queensland Oaks, with Ethan Brown retaining the ride. The well-fancied Philia leads the market at $3.50 despite drawing wide, while Benagil ($6) with Mark Zahra from barrier five is the only other runner quoted in single figures.
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