Salty Pearl stands out as the most resilient filly currently in training, handled by Ciaron Maher.
Having navigated a tough spring with Group 2 successes, the dependable filly pursues Group 1 riches in the Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville on Saturday.
Saturday’s effort will be her sixth this season, initiated in January atop a four-run spring lead-up.
She has handled rapid returns well in the past, yet this occasion introduces significant travel to prove her mettle.
Limited to Melbourne fixtures so far, Salty Pearl shipped to Sydney last time, securing third in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill on March 28, now en route to Adelaide four weeks hence for the Australasian Oaks.
Jack Turnbull, National Assistant Trainer at Ciaron Maher Racing, mentioned breaking the Adelaide haul with a Ballarat stop.
“It is hard to travel and maintain form, but she did it for Sydney and the question mark is whether she can back up in Adelaide,” Turnbull said.
“We can break the trip up by stopping over in Ballarat and then it’s only five hours from there, so it’s not a huge ask.
“She’s just a wonderful horse to train.
“She’s incredibly consistent. She doesn’t take any extra work to manage. She’s hardy to train, which is fantastic.
“She had a jump-out last week and ran a really good race in the Vinery, so she will head to the Oaks.”
Stablemate Paltrow Miss joins her in the Oaks, differing greatly in career starts.
The filly contests her mere fourth race Saturday, launching in New Zealand then Maher’s team, victorious first-up at Sandown and second at Caulfield subsequently.
“She’s obviously a lot less experienced, but profiles as a horse that warrants going over there,” Turnbull said.
“She still has a bit to learn, but she’s showing good ability.
“It will be tough for her, but she’s only three once, it’s the right time of year, so we’ll give her that chance.”
Craig Williams takes over on Paltrow Miss, while Ben Allen continues with Salty Pearl.
View the latest racing betting markets ahead of the Australasian Oaks showdown.
