There’s a lot on the line for Oscar’s Fortune as he resumes racing at Flemington this Saturday.
A strong performance in the Listed Bob Hoysted Handicap (1000m) will almost certainly secure him a trip to Western Australia for the $5 million Kia-Quokka (1200m). However, if he falls short of expectations, a trip to Sydney will likely be the alternative, ruling out a return to Perth.
Owner Kevin Fowler, who runs breeding and racing operation Loloma Farm, is leaning towards the first option based on the glowing feedback from trainer Gavin Bedggood.
Fowler would love to see Oscar’s Fortune take another shot at the Quokka after finishing third in the race last year. Reports from the stable suggest the four-year-old is in top shape, with his preparation further boosted by an impressive trial win.
Oscar’s Fortune is making his return after closing a brief first campaign for Bedggood with a ninth-place finish behind Nadal in the Meteorite (1200m) at Cranbourne last November.
Fowler is eager to see him perform strongly in the Bob Hoysted, setting a marker for a potential Quokka bid.
“I’m very much excited he’s coming back,” Fowler told Racing WA.
“The feedback I’ve been receiving has been very good.
“After his last run when he got caught three wide punching, we put him in the paddock and started again.
“He’s had a good long break and a good build-up into it.
“Basically, we make decisions on where he goes after Saturday.
“The Quokka has been brought up and spoken about.
“I had someone ring me, but it all hinges on Saturday.”
Fowler purchased Oscar’s Fortune for just $5,500 at the 2021 Inglis Digital Sale, and he has since amassed $1.2 million in prize money.
Starting his career with trainer Dion Luciani, he made an immediate impact with four consecutive wins in 2023, attracting strong interest from Hong Kong and interstate buyers.
Before relocating to Melbourne, he claimed a career-best victory in the Group 3 Roma Cup (1200m) and finished second to Overpass in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m).
Fowler confirmed that if Oscar’s Fortune heads to the Quokka, it will be a short visit.
“He’ll come back for one run and go straight back to Melbourne,” Fowler said.
“He’ll come back under Gavin.”
Oscar’s Fortune has drawn barrier nine for his return and will be ridden by Mark Zahra.
In Tabtouch markets, he is currently a $9.50 chance, behind Pisanello ($3.30), Midwest ($5), and Spacewalk ($6.50).
The Kia-Quokka will take place at Ascot on April 26.