The Lindsay Park stable has maintained its strong record with horses formerly prepared by the late Mike Moroney, with Oak Hill kicking off a potential Moir Stakes campaign in style at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Partnered by Blake Shinn, the $2.70 favourite produced a powerful late sprint to overhaul early leader Midwest ($5) by one-and-a-half lengths, with Boston Rocks ($5) finishing a head back in third in the Ladbrokes Top 2/3/4 Betting Handicap (1000m).
Trainer Ben Hayes confirmed Oak Hill will return to the same course and distance in two weeks for the Listed Carlyon Stakes before a possible tilt at the Group 1 Moir Stakes on September 6.
“He came to us in terrific condition and hasn’t put a foot wrong,” Hayes said. “He relaxed beautifully today with a genuine speed on, and the way he attacked the line was exciting. Early in his career he could overrace, but he’s learning to settle and that made the difference.”
Oak Hill is currently rated an $11 chance for the Moir Stakes, with Niance heading betting at $4. The five-year-old’s record at the track now stands at four wins and a placing from five starts.
Last year’s Moir Stakes winner, Mornington Glory ($3.20), faded to last in his first-up run for the new preparation.
Punters can find the latest markets for the Moir Stakes and other spring features here.