A start in the prestigious Victoria Derby could be on the horizon for Miss Waititi, a charge of Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr, provided she performs well at Caulfield.
The upcoming Group 3 Ethereal Stakes, run over 2000 metres this Saturday, will be the deciding factor in Miss Waititi’s racing path, determining whether she is aimed at the Victoria Derby or the VRC Oaks, both 2500-metre contests during Melbourne Cup week at Flemington.
Price described the Derby consideration as a ‘thought bubble’ for now, stressing that her performance on Saturday will be crucial in making the final decision.
Since its inauguration in 1855, the Victoria Derby has been won by 13 fillies, the most recent being Frances Tressady in 1923. Born To Be Queen was the last filly to place in 1985, and no filly has competed in the race in the current century.
“We have a small thought of running her in this year’s Victoria Derby,” Price conveyed.
“Fillies don’t do it much, but does it matter, because you can go Ethereal and then two weeks to the Derby, otherwise, we go to the Wakeful (Stakes, same day as the Derby) and then back up into the Oaks.
“It is only a thought at this stage, so it will all be determined after what she does on Saturday.”
Miss Waititi showcased her staying prowess when she battled through Heavy 10 conditions to win the Super Impose Stakes (1800m) at Flemington on October 3.
Price mentioned that he is still evaluating the filly, and it was following a conversation with co-owner Tim Porter that the prospect of Miss Waititi being a VRC Oaks contender was discussed.
Prior to her Flemington victory, Miss Waititi had only raced twice.
“I had a chat to Tim Porter about her, and he said is there any possibility of her being a VRC Oaks filly,” Price said.
“If she was to be an Oaks filly, then this is what we had to do with her.
“She could not have won the Edward Manifold on that day (at Flemington), so we went to the 1800-metre and she won.
“It was Listed so she’s got that status, and now we know what she can do.
“I know it was a lesser race, but what will be in the VRC Oaks and even the Derby.
“We’ll get to know more on Saturday.”
The Ethereal Stakes will provide a clear indication of Miss Waititi’s potential, and checking the Australian betting sites for the latest odds is recommended.