For a few strides turning for home in the Class 3 Handicap at Caulfield, Princess Of Queens was looking as though she was going to provide a fairytale result.
But it was her stablemate Oregon’s Day that scored, coming from back in the field.
Princess Of Queens lined-up in Saturday’s 1400m contest a little over a week after one of her part-owners, broadcaster Drew Morphett, died at home watching the football.
The Mick Price-trained mare took the lead soon after straightening, but it was apparent at the 200m her winning run was over.
But under Ben Melham’s guidance, Princess Of Queens ($6.50) held on for third, beaten a little over two lengths.
“That’s her at her best,” Price said.
“You can’t get off and push them.
“She had a nice run in the race, presented at the right time, but ran third.”
Sent off the $4.40 equal favourite, Oregon’s Day held off a late flourish from Swampland ($4.60) with Princess Of Queens two lengths away.
Price is looking at black type with the mare after Saturday’s victory.
He’s picked out the Group Two Let’s Elope Stakes at Flemington on September 16 and the Group Two Stocks Stakes at Moonee Valley on September 29.
But his ultimate goal with the mare is the Group One Myer Classic at Flemington in November.
“She might have a Group One mares race in her,” Price said.
“I’m not going to go past a mile with her and there will be improvement to come.”
Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au