Esteemed trainer David Payne has declared his undefeated filly, Proxima Dea, a more capable stayer than his former high-class mare Montefilia as they approach the Group 1 $1 million Crown Oaks (2500m) at Flemington on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
Proxima Dea is the commanding favourite for the fillies’ classic following her decisive victory over male rivals in the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes at her last start.
It is worth noting that Montefilia also triumphed in the Spring Champion Stakes back in 2020 and was the $1.80 favourite for the Oaks, ultimately finishing third behind Personal.
Payne is not only convinced that Proxima Dea is better suited to the 2500m journey but also feels the tactics used with Montefilia in the Oaks six years ago were incorrect.
“I think Proxima Dea stays better,” Payne said.
“But in fairness to Montefilia, I think we rode her upside down in the Oaks. If we had ridden her quietly, she probably would have won.
“We know this filly (Proxima Dea) stays and we can ride her anywhere really but I would like her to be in the first three or four in the run.”
Proxima Dea, a name meaning ‘another goddess’ in Latin, is in her debut preparation and has performed exceptionally well to remain unbeaten from five starts, making a significant progression from a maiden race to a Group 1 classic for three-year-old fillies.
Payne, who boasts over 100 Group 1 victories from a distinguished career that commenced in South Africa more than five decades ago before his successful relocation to Sydney in 2002, admitted that Proxima Dea’s rapid rise through the ranks has surprised him.
“She is nothing to look at but she does have a lovely action,” Payne said. “And she’s a natural stayer, she recovers so quickly after her gallops and races.”
Although Proxima Dea has no prior experience racing in the Melbourne direction, Payne mentioned that his filly has adapted without difficulty, having galloped left-handed at Rosehill.
“I’ve galloped her the reverse way a few times now and I did give her a strong piece of work (Saturday morning),” Payne said.
“It wasn’t a worry in the world for her, she handled it easily.”
Payne confirmed that Proxima Dea, who will be partnered by Sydney’s leading jockey Zac Lloyd for the Oaks, travelled to Melbourne on Monday and will not require any further fast work before the major race.
“She’s very fit, I can’t have her any fitter- she’s ready now,” Payne said.
Check out the various Australian betting sites for the latest betting markets for the Crown Oaks.